Intensified microreactors for the synthesis of fine chemicals

(ref. BAP-2023-43)

This work will be carried out under the supervision of Prof. Simon Kuhn. The research group is specifically interested in Transport Processes and Reactions, with expertise centered on experimental and computational aspects of transport limitations in chemical engineering applications, and their scale-up from lab to production scale. We exploit microreaction technology for the continuous manufacturing of fine chemicals, and to efficiently integrate non-conventional and green energy sources (e.g. ultrasound, photo- and electrochemistry) to achieve sustainable processes. The rational approach of combining numerical and experimental techniques contributes to reactor design toolboxes for process intensification.

Chemical manufacturing is transitioning from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources, such as solar and wind energy. Solar and wind energy can be transformed into electricity and this energy form can be directly used to activate chemical transformations, specifically either light mediated (photochemistry) or directly exploiting the free electrons (electrochemistry). And both, light induced transformations and electrochemistry, can be regarded as an efficient and green activation mode of organic molecules, resulting in more sustainable chemical manufacture.

The research group has developed a wide range of intensified photo- and electrochemical reactors on the micro- and milli-scale. The scope of this postdoctoral position is to exploit the developed technologies for the synthesis of fine chemicals exploring novel reaction routes.

We are looking for a highly motivated post-doctoral researcher with a background in chemistry or chemical engineering. The successful candidate will be offered a post-doc position to become part of our international team with global research and industry links. Funding can be initially provided for a period of 1 year, with the option of extension to 2 years.

•Requirement: PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

•Knowledge of reaction engineering and photochemistry

•Adequate English (written and verbal communication) for scientific interactions required

•Strong motivation is a must

•Willingness to work at interdisciplinary boundaries

The successful candidate will be offered a post-doc position to become part of our international team with global research and industry links. Funding can be initially provided for a period of 1 year, with the option of extension to 2 years.

For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Simon Kuhn, mail: simon.kuhn@kuleuven.be.

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at diversiteit.HR@kuleuven.be.