Luleå University of Technology is growing rapidly with world-leading expertise in several research areas. We shape the future through innovative education and groundbreaking research results, and based on the Arctic region, we create global social benefits. Our scientific and artistic research and education are conducted in close collaboration with international, national and regional companies, public actors and leading universities. Luleå University of Technology has a total turnover of SEK 2 billion per year. We are currently 1,500 employees and have 17,900 students. In the coming years, billions of kronor will be invested in Norrbotten and Västerbotten in major projects aimed at a more sustainable society nationally as well as globally. Luleå University of Technology is involved in several of these highly topical research projects and the social transformation that follows. We have a wide range of programs to match the skills that are in demand. We hope you will help us build the sustainable companies and societies of the future. The Division of Energy Science at Luleå University of Technology is looking for a PhD student in Energy Engineering, focusing on a novel 2-step pyrolysis technology to produce several high-value products, including biochar, biofuels, hydrogen carriers and chemicals. Subject description Energy Engineering covers the development of technologies and processes for a sustainable energy supply. Our research is focused on biofuel technology and energy efficient utilization in industry and society. We collaborate with companies/industries in research and student projects. Our research is of a high international standard and we collaborate with researchers worldwide. Project description This PhD project is part of the collaborative project, "Maximizing the yield of carbon-rich products from bioresources via an innovative two-step pyrolysis", funded by the Strategic Innovation Program, BioInnovation (via Vinnova, the Swedish Energy Agency, and FORMAS). The project team consists of Envigas AB, Stena Recycling AB, Outokumpu Oyj, Swerim AB, and LTU. The project aims to establish an efficient method to maximize the carbon efficiency of bioresources into several high-value products. The innovative two-stage pyrolysis (2StagePyro) proposed aims to efficiently convert bioresources into biochar, bioproducts and clean synthesis gas. The main knowledge gap in industrializing 2StagePyro is detailed knowledge of how different process parameters interact with each other and determine the distribution and properties of final products. You will perform experiments to identify the key operating parameters of 2StagePyro in a lab-scale screw reactor. In addition, you will perform extensive characterization of pyrolysis products (both solid, liquid and gas). You will also participate in the large-scale experiments in the pilot plant operated by one of the project partners. Work tasks As a PhD student, most of your working time will be devoted to your research studies. You will be trained in scientific work by publishing scientific articles in journals and participating in national and international conferences. You will also take compulsory and optional doctoral courses. In addition, you may have the opportunity to try out the role of teacher. As a researcher, you will work as a neutral party in many contexts, which provides a great opportunity to learn how to run challenging development projects. You will be supported in your work by two or three supervisors. Skills and experience We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. You should have a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Process Engineering, or equivalent. Additional requirements - Very good oral and written knowledge of English. - Good skills of experimentation. - Good academic writing skills. - Ability to work independently and to take initiative, as well as to familiarize yourself with new issues on your own. The following skills and knowledge are an asset - Experience in R&D of biomass pyrolysis processes - Reactor design - Chemical and material analysis of biomass and biochar - Analysis of complex organic liquids (e.g. bio-oil, crude oil) - Thermochemical conversion technologies See also the general syllabus for postgraduate studies in energy technology. Most of the staff at the subject Energy Technology is currently male, therefore we welcome female applicants. Information about the position The PhD position is a fixed-term full-time position for 4 years, teaching and other departmental duties may be added up to 20% of full-time. You will be employed at Luleå University of Technology and be located in Luleå, Sweden. For further information, please contact: Professor Kentaro Umeki, 0920-49 2484, kentaro.umeki@ltu.se Professor Marcus Öhman, Head of Division, 0920-49 1977, marcus.ohman@ltu.se Trade union representative: SACO-S Diana Chroneer, 0920-49 2037 diana.chroneer@ltu.se and OFR-S Lars Frisk, 0920-49 1792 lars.frisk@ltu.se How to apply We prefer that you apply for the position via the application button below, where you attach a personal letter explaining why you are interested in the position and how the research project matches your interests and educational background. The application should also include a CV, a degree certificate or equivalent, and any other documents you wish to refer to, such as copies of grades, details of references, letters of recommendation. Please mark your application with the reference number below. Both the application and the degree certificate must be written in Swedish or English. Reference number: 5239-2024 Application deadline: January 10, 2025