PhD Transient Fischer–Tropsch Catalysis

Introduction

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 Fischer–Tropsch 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 (e‑naphtha to e‑wax), 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.

Job Description

Fischer–Tropsch 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 (e‑naphtha to e‑wax), 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.

Job Requirements

• A master’s 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)

Conditions of Employment

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 station. In 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. € 3,059 - max. € 3,881 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 children's day care and sports facilities.  
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus 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 30% facility) for international candidates. 

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

About us

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 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech 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.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact Emiel Hensen, [email protected] or +31 40 247 5178.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact [email protected].

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

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.

Please note

• 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.