PhD position (Solar-powered electrodialysis for brackish water treatment) - Multiple positions are available Full PhD

Doctorat / PhD Type de poste : Full PhD Financement : yes Date limite de candidature : 31. Dec 2026 Date de début : as soon as possible Durée : as soon as possible for 4 years Langue de travail : English Diplôme requis : Master

This PhD project relates with ongoing research projects in the area of renewable energy powered membrane processes, in particular solar-powered electrodialysis at IAMT. The removal of inorganic contaminants such as nitrate, arsenic, selenium, uranium and fluoride is a key priority. This project will explore the adaptation of the system to fluctuations in solar energy that results in a non-steady state operation. The project will include i) operation of novel continuous electrodialysis system with fluctuating energy, ii) examination of water contaminants in brackish water treatment, iii) evaluation of results in comparison to established nanofiltration and reverse osmosis processes, iv) national and international field work. There are many aspects of this project, that require in-depth research and development, including; Feasibility studies on contaminant removal in a solar powered electrodialysis process Establishment of the most suitable energy management scenario in collaboration with the renewable energy colleagues at IMT Elucidation of the dominant separation mechanisms, to achieve both fundamental understanding and optimized process performance The PhD project will be predominantly experimental and will begin with an identification of a set of research questions based on a detailed literature survey. A research proposal is required for the application stage with a timetable for a four-year research project. Execution of the research plan through conducting of experiments, sample and data analysis and write-up of results for scientific publication are part of the PhD process – a journey to become an independent researcher! Throughout the project, there will be multiple opportunities for cooperation with internal and external partners, supervision of Master students, giving oral presentations at conferences, writing high-impact journal articles, as well as sharing your knowledge via (a minimal amount of) teaching. Career development through many team activities is an opportunity to attain leadership skills and prepare for exciting professional opportunities in industry or academia. Qualifications The candidate will hold a Masters in Chemical, Process, Environmental Engineering, or equivalent, and is a naturally curious person who is eager to learn more and has a strong interest in research. Experience with membrane filtration and electrochemical systems (of any scale) is a definite advantage, as well as being comfortable in specifying system components and sound experimental problem solving skills – as well a good common sense. Excellent English language proficiency is essential, basic German language skills of advantage. About KIT KIT is one of the biggest research institutions worldwide and has access to…