Join our team that researches the sustainable production of high-added value chemicals from next-generation biomass resources, in a versatile role at the interface of academia and industry. Research Associate (Postdoctoral researcher) – Reaction Engineering for Biomass Valorisation 100 %

Wädenswil

Your role

  • Research innovative thermochemical pretreatment methods for lignocellulosic biomass conversion to biochemicals and -materials, with a special emphasis on the valorisation of lignin
  • Lignin use in polymer applications for novel biobased materials; Lignin depolymerisation
  • Enzymatic cellulose hydrolysis, potentially including the fermentation to green platform and fine chemicals
  • Contribute to implementing the developed processes (e.g. transfer to pilot plant, industry collaborations)
  • Presentation of research findings in peer-reviewed journals, patents and conferences
  • Participate in proposal development and in networking with institutes and industrial partners
  • Supervision of students on BA, MA and potentially PhD level; supervision of practical laboratory courses
  • Setup of new instrumentation and maintenance of laboratory infrastructure (e.g. autoclave reactors, incubators, bioreactors); procurement of consumables and chemicals
  • Contribute to building-up the new Group for Biobased Resources in a growing, young and dynamic team

Your profile

  • PhD in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Material Sciences, Bioprocess Engineering or related fields
  • In-depth experience with lignin chemistry, lignin processing (chemical, thermal or enzymatic) and lignin analytical measurement techniques
  • Familiarity with lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment, enzymatic cellulose conversion and state-of-the-art methods for biomass and biopolymer analytics
  • Experience with reaction engineering, benchtop reactors or process design is a plus
  • Competence in experimental design and analytical method development (e.g. HPLC, GC-MS, SEC)
  • Demonstrated ability to disseminate research findings through quality peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations
  • Prior mentorship of junior researchers and/or industrial experience is a plus
  • Curiosity and passion for research, self-motivated and autonomous, communicative and team player
  • Fluent in English, knowledge of German is an asset

Do you have any other questions?
For more information regarding the vacancy, please contact Laura Hornung, Recruiting Manager. e-mail:
laura.hornung@zhaw.ch. Are you interested?
If you would like to apply, please use the online platform to send us your portfolio, Attn. Laura Hornung, at laura.hornung@zhaw.ch.

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