The objective of the PhD project is the modeling of gradients in stirred tank bioreactors. Mixing of such bioreactors is important, especially for aerobic fermentations where the maximum production rate in growth associated production systems is usually limited by the mixing and the mass transfer capabilities in the system. An open question to be investigated in this project is whether the current reactor design and mixing equipment design are sufficient to obtain the highest productivity. It is expected that a significant part of the PhD project will be spent on development of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models. Data collection at pilot scale or at full–scale for generating data sets that can be used for CFD model validation will furthermore also form an important part of the project. Finally, it is expected that suggested process improvements resulting from the CFD modelling work will be implemented and tested in practice as well.
Candidates for the position should have a master's degree in chemical or biochemical engineering. Beside a strong commitment for research, the PhD student should preferably have experience with fermentation processes (lab-scale, pilot scale), mathematical modeling and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The ideal candidate has experience with the construction of mathematical models, simulation, and development of simulation code in a software package such as Matlab-Simulink or the like. The position offers an opportunity to work in a dynamic multi-disciplinary research group, the CAPEC-PROCESS Center at the Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at DTU, with strong focus on development of new or improved bio-based production processes
Assessment
In the assessment of the candidates for the PhD position at DTU, consideration will be given to:
- Relevance of background experience (especially knowledge of mathematical modelling / CFD)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English, and good communication skills.
The assessment of the candidates will be made by Professor Krist V. Gernaey.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval, and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
Salary and appointment terms
The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The position is available for a period of 3 years from 1 March 2015.
Further information
For further information please contact Professor Krist V. Gernaey,kvg<στο>kt.dtu.dk, tel: +45 4525 2970.
Please do not send applications to this e-mail address, instead apply online as described below.
Application
Please submit your online application no later than 4 February 2015. Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online," fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (an official translation into English)
- Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and excel spreadsheet here)
Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree, but cannot begin before having received it.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
Application Deadline : 4 February 2015