Are you a motivated researcher in chemical or mechanical engineering? KU Leuven is currently inviting applications for a PhD position focused on the application of high-intensity focused ultrasound in mineral carbonation processes.
PhD Opportunity: High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound for Crystallization at KU Leuven, Belgium
Position Overview
- Designation: PhD Researcher
- Research Area: Process Intensification, Sonochemical Processes, and Crystallization
- Location: Leuven, Belgium
- Institution: KU Leuven
Summary
This project, supervised by Prof. Tom Van Gerven, is embedded within the Group of Process Intensification with Alternative Energy Forms at the Department of Chemical Engineering. The research aims to improve mineral carbonation—a vital process for CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage), metallurgical extraction, and the production of inorganic fillers—by investigating the use of high-intensity focused ultrasound to enhance gas injection, dispersion, and crystallization.
Quick Reference
| Feature | Details |
| Reference Number | BAP-2026-412 |
| Employment Type | Full-time |
| Department | Chemical Engineering |
| Application Deadline | August 31, 2026 |
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Education: Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline with strong academic marks.
- Skills: Strong motivation and the willingness to work at interdisciplinary boundaries.
- Language: Adequate proficiency in written and verbal English for scientific communication.
- Preferred: Prior knowledge of sonochemical processes or crystallization is considered an asset.
Job Description
The successful candidate will join an international team with global research links. You will work on optimizing mineral carbonation, specifically targeting:
- Faster, more selective, and more complete synthesis of carbonates (e.g., calcium/magnesium carbonate).
- The implementation of mineral carbonation in circular hydrometallurgy to regenerate leaching acids.
- The specific role of high-intensity focused ultrasound in gas injection, dispersion, and crystallization steps.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the online application tool. For informal inquiries, you may contact Prof. dr. ir. Tom Van Gerven at tom.vangerven@kuleuven.be.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted no later than August 31, 2026, at 23:59 CET.
