Are you looking for a research role that directly addresses one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges? The University of Twente is offering a fully funded PhD position within its Thermal Conversion and Storage group. This project focuses on advancing cryogenic carbon capture technology—a critical pathway for reducing CO₂ emissions in heavy industries like power generation, steel, and cement manufacturing.
As a PhD candidate, you will work within the Department of Thermal and Fluid Engineering to design, build, and operate advanced experimental setups, helping to unlock the physical principles of CO₂ desublimation (the direct phase change from gas to solid at ultra-low temperatures).
Vacancy Overview
Below is a quick summary of the PhD opportunity:
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Candidate |
| Research Area | CO₂ Desublimation, Cryogenic Carbon Capture, Thermal & Fluid Engineering |
| Host Institution | University of Twente, Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) |
| Location | Enschede, Netherlands |
| Partners | RWTH Aachen University and Emicap B.V. |
| Interviews | November 2 to November 13 |
| Apply Link | Official Application Portal |
Scholarship & Project Description
Cryogenic carbon capture is a highly promising method to capture high-purity CO₂ without using harmful chemical solvents. However, the exact physics governing how the solid CO₂ layer grows, and how it impacts heat and mass transfer, is not yet fully understood. This project aims to bridge that knowledge gap.
This is a primarily experimental role supported by data analysis and modeling. You will work in a cutting-edge laboratory environment to build a cryogenic experimental setup where you can manipulate pressure, flow rate, gas composition, and surface temperatures. Utilizing advanced optical diagnostics like Schlieren and back-light imaging, you will visualize and analyze solid CO₂ layer formation in real-time.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, commission, and operate a specialized cryogenic test setup.
- Conduct low-temperature experiments using gas mixtures containing CO₂.
- Use optical diagnostics to track and quantify solid CO₂ layer growth.
- Analyze heat and mass transport phenomena.
- Collaborate with key academic and industrial partners (RWTH Aachen University and Emicap B.V.).
- Publish scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.
- Contribute a small portion of your time to departmental teaching activities.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Candidates applying for this PhD position must meet the following criteria:
- An MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related discipline.
- A strong interest or background in thermal-fluid sciences, experimental design, and optical measurement techniques.
- Excellent analytical and communication skills.
- English Language Proficiency: Non-Dutch applicants who did not complete their secondary and tertiary education in English must provide proof of English proficiency:
- IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90
- Cambridge CAE-C (CPE)
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications directly through the University of Twente’s official vacancy portal. Please prepare and upload the following documents:
- A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A cover letter highlighting your motivation and relevant experience (maximum 2 A4 pages).
- Academic transcripts containing courses and grades for both your BSc and MSc degrees.
- Your MSc thesis or an equivalent sample of your scientific writing (if available).
- Contact details of two professional/academic references.
For scientific or role-specific inquiries, you may contact Dr. ir. Abhishek Purandare at a.s.purandare@utwente.nl.
Last Date to Apply
While a strict closing date is not specified, interviews are scheduled to take place between November 2 and November 13. Applicants are highly encouraged to submit their dossiers as early as possible before this window.
To submit your application, please visit the official University of Twente portal via the link below:
Apply Now for this PhD Position
