The challenge

Thermochemical heat storage (TCH) is a promising technology for the efficient utilization of renewable energy all over the year. The heart of a TCH system is the reactor, where the reaction between the Thermochemical material and a gas occurs. This reaction involves a coupled heat and mass transfer which determines the performance of the system. The state-of-the-art reactors working in the fixed bed concepts have limitations in either heat or mass transfer. This project aims to overcome these limitations by developing a new type of reactor. As such the task of PhD will be design, construction and testing the set-up.

During this exciting cross-disciplinary project you will acquire unique expertise and outstanding skills through close contact with academic and industrial collaborators. You will be based in a team with outstanding academic performance, a strong industrial network, and a pleasant, collaborative atmosphere.

Your first responsibility is to carry out the research, but you are also encouraged to acquire teaching experience. We support you to broaden your knowledge by joining international exchange programs, by participating in national and international conferences and workshops and by visiting industrial companies, research institutes, and universities worldwide.

• You hold a Master's degree in Chemical engineering, Applied Physics or Mechanical engineering.
• A background in experimentation, knowledge of materials characterization and thermal energy storage technologies is desirable.
• Knowledge of reaction engineering will be regarded as a plus.
• Previous knowledge in designing experimental apparatus and test methods.
• Your writing skills are good - you have written technical reports and/or scientific papers.
• You have strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently as well in a team.
• You have excellent communication skills.
• You are fluent in English, both spoken and written .
• You have experience in doing multidisciplinary based research.
• You have an interest in contributing to a high quality, impactful working team with several post docs and PhD candidates.

• We offer you a very challenging position in an inspiring multidisciplinary environment. The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in which internationalization is an important part of the strategic agenda.
• We offer a four-year fulltime PhD position.
• We provide a stimulating, modern research environment with world-class research facilities.
• You will be part of a dedicated team with which you will collaborate extensively with industry.
• A starting salary of € 2.872,- gross per month in the first year and increasing to € 3.670,- gross per month in the fourth year.
• An annual holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, and an annual year-end bonus of 8.3%.
• A solid pension scheme.
• Minimum of 29 leave days in case of full-time employment.
• We provide excellent mentorship and a stimulating research environment to accelerate your further professional and personal growth.
• The University of Twente is situated on a green and lively campus with lots of facilities for sports and other activities.

You are welcome to contact Prof. dr. ir Mina Shahi: m.shahi@utwente.nl , Dr.ir. Abhishek Purandare a.s.purandare@utwente.nl for any questions you might have.

Please upload your application via the ‘Apply now’ button. Your application must include:

• A video (maximum of two minutes) explaining your scientific interests and why you wish to apply for this job. In your CV document, please attach a web URL for video direct download.
• A cover letter exposing the candidate motivation for this position.
• An up-to-date CV, detailing work experience and research and academic achievements
• Transcript of records (applicant’s ranking and marks) for both Bachelor degree and Master degree.
• Documentation proving your English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL score)
• At least two reference letters from a (former) supervisor, professor, or a manager with contact information.

Only complete submissions that include all the aforementioned documents will be considered for future processes.
A first selection will be made based on this written application. A selected group of applicants will be invited for an interview.

The application deadline is September 21st 2024.