Project assistent in Chemical Engineering with emphasis on membrane processens

Lund University, Faculty of Engineering, LTH, Institutionen för kemiteknik

Lund University was founded in 1666 and is repeatedly ranked among the world’s top 100 universities. The University has 40 000 students and more than 8 000 staff based in Lund, Helsingborg and Malmö. We are united in our efforts to understand, explain and improve our world and the human condition. 

LTH forms the Faculty of Engineering at Lund University, with approximately 9 000 students. The research carried out at LTH is of a high international standard and we are continuously developing our teaching methods and adapting our courses to current needs.

The overall goal of the project is to develop the most energy efficient method  to concentrate and dry biopolymers extracted from renewable raw materials. Questions to be answered in the project:

How far  the maximum dry solids content in ultrafiltration of aqueous solutions containing biopolymers can be extended using membrane equipment adapted for viscous solutions?

How is energy requirement affected when the dry solids content increases, and when does the energy requirement in ultrafiltration become as high as in evaporation?

What is the optimal change-over concentration between the different processes from an economic perspective?

Work duties

• Plan experiments with different types of membranes and membrane modules in consultation with the project managers.
• Independently assemble experimental equipment to be used to evaluate the impact of different operating parameters on membrane and module performance.
• Independently conduct pilot-scale experiments in the apparatus hall at Kemicentrum.
• Orally present the results obtained and, in consultation with the project managers, evaluate these results.
• Carefully document the work in the form of a logbook.
• At the end of the work, to present the work in a technical report.

Qualifications

• Civil engineering degree or equivalent.
• Basic knowledge about pressure-driven membrane processes such as ultrafiltration, nanofiltration and/or reverse osmosis.

The position requires an independent person who can design and carry out experiments on his/her own and with good collaborative ability in order to be able to discuss and evaluate results of the experiments together with other persons involved in the project. 

Other merits

• Practical experience of pressure-driven membrane processes
• Previous experience of work in the type of "industrial" environment prevailing in the apparatus hall at Kemicentrum. 

We will place great emphasis on personal suitability. Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen the work within the project. 

Terms of employment
Fixed-term employment, 4 months, 100 %. 

Instructions on how to apply
Applications should include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the employment corresponds to your qualifications. The application should also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).

Lund University welcomes applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We regard gender equality and diversity as a strength and an asset. We kindly decline all sales and marketing contacts.