The Division of Energy Science at Luleå University of Technology seeks one PhD Student within Energy Engineering, who will focus on the production of biochar using a novel auger reactor for biomass pyrolsysis.
Subject description
Energy Engineering concerns the development of technologies and processes in order to build a sustainable energy supply. The research focuses on bioenergy technologies and energy-efficiency in industry and society.
Project description
The position is associated with the project "BIOKOLMET - Optimization of new biochar process for metallurgical industry”, funded by the Swedish Energy Agency. The project aims to optimize the energy efficiency of the biochar production process, which has been developed as a close collaboration between Luleå University of Technology and local companies. This requires knowledge of how the detail of the heat transfer methods and gas flows through the reactor affect the product yields and quality. Therefore, the project combines lab and industrial scale experiments with modelling. Project partners are Harads Arctic Heat AB and Future Eco North AB. After the project, there will be knowledge to design and build a reactor with the biochar production capacity of 30-50 kt/y.
You will mainly carry out experimental work to identify the key operation parameters for auger reactors that affect the productivity and quality of biocoal. In addition, you will carry out a systematic study to avoid self-heating, ignition, and related fire hazard from biochar storage. You will also participate in the large scale experiments in the demonstration plant being operated by the project partner.
Duties
As a PhD student, most of your working time will be devoted to your own research project. You work independently with your research, and communicate your results in scientific journals and participation at national and international conferences. You also study third-cycle courses. In addition, you can have the opportunity to try the teacher role. As a researcher, you work as a neutral party in many contexts, which provides a great opportunity to be involved in challenging development projects. You will have two or three supervisors who support you in your work.
Qualifications
We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with the ability to work both independently and as a member of a team. You have a master’s degree in chemical engineering, energy engineering, mechanical engineering, or equivalent.
Additional requirements
- Very good oral and written proficiency in English
- Good experimental skills
- Good skills in academic writing
- Ability to work independently and take own initiatives as well as being able to penetrate new research areas on your own
The following competencies and knowledge are meritorious
- Experiences in R&D of biomass pyrolysis
- Chemical reactor design
- Chemical and material analyses of biomass and/or biochar
- Thermochemical conversion technologies.
See also the general curriculum for education at post-graduate level in Energy Engineering.
Further information
Employment as a PhD student is limited to 4 years, teaching and other department duties may be added with max 20%. You will be employed at Luleå University of Technology, and be located in Luleå, Sweden. Starting: by agreement.
For further information about the position, please contact Professor Kentaro Umeki, +46 (0)920-49 2484, kentaro.umeki@ltu.se, Professor Marcus Öhman, Head of Division, +46 (0)920-49 1977, marcus.ohman@ltu.se
Union representatives:SACO-S Kjell Johansson (+46)920-49 1529 kjell.johansson@ltu.se. OFR-S Lars Frisk, (+46)920-49 1792 lars.frisk@ltu.se
In case of different interpretations of the English and Swedish versions of this announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.
Application
We prefer that you apply for this position by clicking on the apply button below. The application should include a CV, a personal letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background, and copies of verified diplomas from high school and universities. You may also add other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).
Mark your application with the reference number below. Your application, including diplomas, must be written in English or Swedish.
Closing date for applications: April 5, 2023
Reference number: 1221-2023