Postdoc position in hydrothermal liquefaction of biomass and wastes Full-time

Postdoc Position in Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Biomass and Wastes

The Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, invites applications for a two separate fixed term positions offering applicants an exciting opportunity to join a new research project on Hydrothermal Liquefaction. One position is for 2 years and one for 1.5 years.

The main responsibilities of the candidate will lie in:

• Planning and execution of pilot scale HTL campaigns
• Carrying out wet-oxidation experiments in pilot scale
• Supporting full scale HTL experimental campaigns with sampling, data analysis, process evaluation and product analysis
• Developing new solutions and technologies for HTL product separation at pilot scale
• Troubleshooting, modification, maintenance and carrying out improvements and upgrades on existing HTL-WO pilot plant
• Chemical analysis of HTL products, data processing and analysis from experimental campaigns to produce scientific publications and reports
• Active participation in the project with all its partners, attend meetings, compile collaborative reports etc.
• Active participation in the supervision and training of MSc, BSc and PhD students

The work will expand on the on-going research using a state of the art, continuous, hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) reactors at the Foulum Campus of Aarhus University. The HTL plant is integrated with Wet Oxidation (WO) plant is currently one of the largest worldwide in academic settings and allows testing of unique and novel ideas at a relevant scale for industry. The work will be carried out as part of a team working in hydrothermal processing and related technologies.

Prior experience in operation, design and maintenance of chemical engineering processes at lab or pilot scale is desired. The candidate is required to have a PhD in chemical engineering, process engineering or similar (or about to complete the degree). A strong academic background in applied research and publication record are expected. The candidates must demonstrate ability to conduct basic and applied interdisciplinary research, and experience with technology transfer from university to industry is beneficial.

Experience in analysis of biomass, biofuels and bioproducts using equipment such as elemental analysis, NMR, GC-MS and similar are essential skills for the candidate.

The ideal candidate has all or several of the following qualifications and specific competences:

• A PhD degree in Chemical Engineering or similar (or about to)
• Prior experience in hydrothermal liquefaction, wet oxidation, pyrolysis, hydrotreating or similar
• Prior experience in operating continuous reactors for biomass processing
• A solid background in thermochemical processing of biomass, biorefining, biofuels or related areas.
• The ability to work independently and to generate new ideas and creative approaches.
• The ability to write high impact, peer reviewed academic publications.
• Is passionate about science and engineering and working in a team dedicated to the green transition.

Applications must be received no later than 25 October 2026.