Post‑doc in material processing for separation processes (100%)
Position Description
* Join the NCCR SEPARATIONS, a large multidisciplinary research consortium led by EPFL, dedicated to developing next‑generation separation processes.
* Develop membrane‑based processes for high‑temperature ammonia separation, including the design of a high‑pressure membrane module.
* Investigate high‑temperature, high‑pressure membrane‑based ammonia separation.
* Develop processes for selective metal recovery from complex liquid waste streams, with a particular focus on lithium and cobalt recovery from battery waste.
* Design, characterise and test porous organised adsorbent materials for selective metal extraction under realistic and challenging conditions (variable pH, high acidity, multicomponent leachates).
* Design, characterise and test porous organised adsorbent materials for direct air capture applications.
* Define technical specifications for research skids (adsorbent units, membrane units and hybrid platforms) and contribute to their commissioning.
* Operate pilot‑scale units, collect and analyse data, and extract relevant KPIs (efficiency, purity, productivity, stability).
* Investigate material degradation mechanisms and contribute to the development of regeneration protocols.
* Produce scientific outputs, including reports, conference papers and peer‑reviewed publications.
Selection Criteria
* PhD in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering or a related field.
* Experience in sorbent structuring: extrusion, tableting, pelletising, additive manufacturing or similar shaping processes.
* Solid knowledge of slurry/feedstock formulation and porous solids preparation.
* Experience operating filtration, membrane or adsorption systems, including data acquisition and processing.
* Ability to perform and interpret physicochemical analyses, such as SEM, Raman, XPS, FTIR, DLS, XRD, GC/MS, BET and surface tension.
* Experience with corrosive media, high temperature/pressure setups, or pilot scale equipment is an asset.
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment, with strong organisational skills.
* Strong communication and networking skills, with the ability to contribute to scientific and industrial partnerships.
* Language requirements: English; French is an asset.
Employment
100%
Place of work
Sion, Switzerland
Starting date
Immediately or upon agreement
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