PhD Transient Fischer–Tropsch Catalysis

Are you fascinated by the challenges of the energy transition and catalytic conversion of carbon-based feedstocks We are looking for a motivated PhD candidate to investigate how feedstock composition and catalyst structure affect performance during transient FischerTropsch synthesis (FTS).
In this project you will focus on understanding how variations in CO/CO₂/H₂ ratios and the presence of contaminants influence catalytic activity selectivity (enaphtha to ewax) and long-term stability. By combining advanced kinetic studies with state-of-the-art operando characterization techniques you will develop fundamental insights that enable improved catalyst and process design.
This project is embedded in the HyCarb consortium where academic and industrial partners collaborate on advancing sustainable carbon conversion technologies under realistic operating conditions.

FischerTropsch synthesis is a key technology for converting synthesis gas into sustainable fuels and chemicals. However in practical operation feedstock composition can fluctuate and impurities may be present leading to transient catalyst behavior and deactivation. A fundamental understanding of these effects is currently lacking.

In this project you will:

• Investigate the impact of feedstock composition - Conduct kinetic studies under varying CO/CO₂/H₂ ratios in the presence of contaminants and under transient operating conditions to quantify catalytic activity product selectivity (enaphtha to ewax) and stability.
• Track catalyst state under realistic conditions - apply bulk operando and quasi-in situ techniques to monitor active phase evolution and structural changes during reaction.
• Link surface chemistry to catalytic performance - use advanced surface-sensitive methods including near-ambient pressure XPS DRIFTS and SSITKA-DRIFTS-MS to identify surface intermediates and correlate surface coverage with reaction kinetics.
• Develop advanced characterization workflows - establish robust methodologies for sampling handling and analyzing catalysts from long-term reactor operation without air exposure.

You will work closely with academic partners and industrial stakeholders to align experimental studies with realistic process conditions feedstock variability and application-driven objectives.

• A masters degree in chemical engineering chemistry or a related field
• Strong interest in heterogeneous catalysis and reaction engineering
• Experience with catalyst synthesis characterization or kinetic measurements is a plus
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and collaborate with academic and industrial partners
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level)

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful green campus within walking distance of the central train addition we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme paid pregnancy and maternity leave partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities scale P (min. 3204 - max. 4051 gross per month).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure on-campus childrens day care and sports facilities.
• Unlimited access to the modern oncampus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• An allowance for commuting working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13000 students and more than 7000 staff forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven a worldleading tech region with more than 7000 hightech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI photonics semiconductors and advanced manufacturing Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry bridges science and engineering to create sustainable solutions for society. By combining expertise in molecules materials and processes we drive innovations that address global challenges in energy circularity health and future technology. Through world-class research interdisciplinary collaboration and strong industry partnerships we educate engineers and scientists who turn scientific discoveries into technologies with lasting societal impact. Together we create chemistry for a better world.

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more Please contact Emiel Hensen or.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact .

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We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.