Ph.D. students
Within the newly opened center on separations (NCCR Separations), we have two PhD openings:
- Ph.D. position: Development of highly efficient ammonia production processes via membranes
This project focuses on the design and optimization of novel, energy-efficient routes for the large-scale production of ammonia.
The goal is to design optimal integrated systems where high-performance membranes are used for ammonia separation within the Haber-Bosch process as well as for carbon capture within the hydrogen production.
The successful candidate will develop new models for membrane reactors for ammonia production and evaluate advantages and limitations with respect to downstream separation and state-of-the-art processes.
This work will be performed in close collaboration with experimental researchers developing membranes for ammonia separation and will enable the development of guidelines on optimal membrane performances.
- Ph.D. position: Optimization of material synthesis processes for challenging separations
This project aims to build a broad understanding of how synthesis of materials for separation (membranes and sorbents) impacts the process performances at the technical, economic and environmental level.
The goal is to map the connections between material synthesis processes and material performances, which will define process performances for challenging separations as direct air capture.
We will make use of machine learning models, process models and optimization algorithms to develop guidelines for efficient and environment-friendly materials. This work will be in close collaboration with material scientists, as we will integrate our modelling results and the experimental data into a feedback loop to advance separation materials.
For both projects:
Students with a background in chemical engineering and with a strong interest in computational methods are encouraged to apply.
Please apply directly via email (marina.micari@epfl.ch). The application should include a brief statement of motivation, your CV and the full transcript of records.
The candidates have to be accepted by the EPFL doctoral school in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering (https://www.epfl.ch/education/phd/edch-chemistry-and-chemical-engineering/)
Start date: from May 2026.
Master students
We have openings for master projects:
Climate change is one of the main challenges of our time. One of the key measures to counteract climate change is carbon capture. To make carbon capture more broadly feasible, we need state-of-the-art tools to evaluate multiple technologies and materials used to capture CO2 from different sources. In this project we will resort to modern simulation and machine learning technologies to do so.
Description of activities:
The two master projects we offer will focus on the development of efficient data-driven models to design (project I) membrane and (project II) adsorption processes for carbon capture.
Both students will assemble a core dataset by running rigorous process models with different operating conditions and material properties. Starting from the dataset, they will tailor specific machine learning (artificial neural network and symbolic regression) to work as fast data-driven models in real-time.
These models will be coupled with economic and life cycle assessment models to allow for a fast evaluation of the costs and the environmental impact.
Expected learning outcomes:
Students will gain knowledge on capture technologies, expertise in mathematical modelling and optimization of separation processes and experience in using machine learning algorithms to develop data-driven models. These skills are in high demand both in industry and academia.
Required skills:
Students with a background in computer science or in chemical engineering with a strong interest in computational methods are encouraged to apply.
Please apply directly via email (marina.micari@epfl.ch) including a brief statement of motivation, CV, and transcript of records.
Project available from September 2024.