PhD scholarship in catalysis for sustainable production of solvents - DTU Chemistry

DTU Chemistry at the Technical University of Denmark is seeking highly motivated candidates for a PhD scholarship in the field of catalysis to develop new sustainable routes to produce selected organic commodity solvents. The PhD scholarship is a three-year position starting in September 2024, or shortly hereafter, and the project is done in collaboration with an international industrial partner.

Our research focuses on catalysis and chemistry for the sustainable production of fuels and chemicals. The aim of the PhD project is to develop high-performing and durable supported metal-based catalyst systems for the synthesis of selected organic solvents with industrial importance from renewable resources. 

Your tasks in the project will include syntheses of catalysts and testing of their performance in both batch and continuous-flow mode. Furthermore, you characterize the materials using various ex-situ techniques and draft scientific publications as well as interim project reports.

As our new colleague, you will join the research group of Professor Anders Riisager which is part of the larger Centre for Catalysis and Sustainable Chemistry. Here, you will experience a diverse and international research environment with friendly and supportive colleagues dedicated to advancing novel sustainable chemistry and processes for moving the green transition forward.

What we’re looking for
We are looking for a bright and motivated PhD student who is driven by curiosity, has a strong experimental mindset, and enjoys collaborating with both industrial and international research partners. The ideal candidate will bring the following to the project:

• A MSc degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or other relevant fields 
• Enthusiasm and a let’s go solve attitude
• Creativity, persistence, and attention to detail 
• Excellent communication skills in English (both spoken and written)

Documented scientific achievements and experience with catalysis, instrumental analytical methods, materials chemistry and characterization, or flow synthesis will be considered an advantage but is not a prerequisite for applying. 

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

What we offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation, and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Approval and Enrolment  
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education . 

Assessment
Professor Anders Riisager will make the assessment of the applicants.

Salary and appointment terms 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years. 

The starting date is September 2024 or according to mutual agreement. The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here .

Further information  
Further information about the open PhD position may be obtained from Professor Anders Riisager +45 4525 2233. 

You can read more about DTU Chemistry at www.kemi.dtu.dk 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. 

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 26 May 2024 (23:59 Danish time) . 

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae with list of publications or other scientific contributions. DO NOT upload scientific articles
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
• Contact details of two individuals who can provide a letter of reference
• A brief video (max. 2 minutes) introducing yourself

You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. 

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.