Summary
The Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is offering a fully funded 3-year PhD scholarship focused on osmotic energy generation and membrane separation. The research aims to scale up and optimize Pressure Retarded Osmosis (PRO) systems operating at up to 70 bar, addressing critical challenges like flow distribution, spacer geometry, and operational stability to mitigate fouling under hypersaline conditions.
PhD Scholarship in Scaling up and Optimization of Pressure Retarded Osmosis Processes
Key Details
| Parameter | Details |
| Designation | PhD Candidate / PhD Scholarship |
| Job ID | 8002 |
| Host Institution | Technical University of Denmark (DTU) |
| Department / Center | Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering / Center for Process and Systems Engineering |
| Research Area | Membrane Process Engineering / Osmotic Energy / Renewable Energy |
| Location | Kolonnevej B228A, Kgs. Lyngby, 2800, Denmark |
| Duration & Type | 3 years, Full-time |
| Expected Start Date | December 1, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | September 17, 2026 (23:59 Danish time) |
Research Area
- Primary Field: Chemical Engineering, Membrane Separation Processes, Renewable Osmotic Energy.
- Focus Areas:
- Scale-up and optimization of Pressure Retarded Osmosis (PRO) systems operating up to 70 bar.
- Flat sheet plate and frame module concepts.
- Mitigation of internal concentration polarization (ICP) and membrane fouling under hypersaline conditions.
- Numerical modeling / Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) paired with experimental long-duration testing.
Eligibility / Qualification
- Academic Degree: A two-year Master’s degree (equivalent to 120 ECTS points) in Technical University of Denmark (DTU) (Applicants close to completing their MSc may apply, but graduation is required prior to employment).
- Technical Background:
- Documented experience in membrane separation processes and laboratory- or pilot-scale membrane unit operations.
- Strong understanding of transport phenomena, fluid dynamics, or spacer design in membrane modules.
- Knowledge or working interest in process modeling, CFD, or data-driven approaches.
- Working knowledge of fouling mechanisms and experimental testing in high-salinity environments.
Scholarship Description
Osmotic energy represents a continuous, non-intermittent renewable power source key to the green transition. Hosted at DTU’s Center for Process and Systems Engineering, the project aims to systematically tackle scale-up hurdles in Pressure Retarded Osmosis by developing optimized spacer designs and membrane housing geometries.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, evaluate, and test optimized feed spacer geometries and flow distribution strategies.
- Execute long-duration experimental testing using high-pressure (up to 70 bar) plate and frame membrane modules.
- Utilize CFD and numerical modeling to support data-assisted module selection and evaluate parallelization.
- Collaborate with both domestic and international academic and industrial partners.
Terms of Employment:
- The appointment is for 3 years, governed by the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations.
- Includes standard Danish public research staff allowances, pension contributions, and benefits.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically through the official DTU career portal before the deadline.
- Format Requirement: All application materials must be in English and merged into one single PDF file.
- Required Documents:
- Cover Letter: Stating research background, motivations, and qualifications.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Grade Transcripts & Diplomas: BSc and MSc official transcripts and certificates (including the official grading scale).
- Application Link: Apply via the DTU Career Portal (Job ID: 8002).
For academic inquiries regarding the position, contact Prof. Manuel Pinelo at mp@kt.dtu.dk.
Last Date for Apply
September 17, 2026, by 23:59 (Danish Time / CET)
