IMDEA Energy is opening a Senior Assistant Researcher Position for the Thermochemical Processes Unit to work on the development of catalytic processes for biomass and waste plastics valorization into chemicals and fuels. We are looking for a candidate with a comprehensive background that includes catalyst synthesis and characterization—preferably zeolite-based—as well as strong experience in carrying out reactions and applying multiple analytical techniques for product characterization. The candidate should be highly motivated, capable of driving his/her own research project independently while actively collaborating with other members of the unit.

The requirements are as follows:

Tasks Description:

• Setting and running reaction systems, mainly lab-scale fixed-bed reactors in batch and continuous mode and involving different types of conditions (N2/H2 gas, from atmospheric to moderate pressure).
• Analysis of reaction products involving different physical states (solid, gas and liquid) and nature (aqueous fractions, organic fractions, hydrocarbons, halogens, etc.).
• Synthesis of heterogeneous catalysts, mainly based in zeolitic materials, and their characterization with basic and advanced techniques.
• Supervision and training of Bachelor/Master students, technicians and predoctoral/postdoctoral researchers.
• Communicate and disseminate research results through high-quality scientific channels including high impact scientific publications, presentations in congresses, social media, etc.
• Preparation of project proposals to national and international calls.
• Coordination and management of research projects.

Compulsory Requirements:

• PhD degree in chemical engineering or related areas related to the profile of the position.
• At least 4 years of postdoctoral research activities related to the profile of the position.
• Experience in setting and running reaction systems, mainly lab-scale fixed-bed reactors in batch and continuous mode.
• Experience in the analysis of complex organic liquid samples (bio-oils and plastic pyrolysis oils) via gas chromatography, specifically with a mass spectrometer detector.
• Experience in biomass conversion and waste plastics valorization by catalytic processes to produce fuels and/or chemicals.

NOTE: Each compulsory requirement must be explicitly stated and addressed individually in the CV. Failure to clearly confirm compliance with all mandatory criteria is not clearly confirmed, the application will not be considered eligible.

Other merits to value:

• Proven strong expertise in running reactions with lab-scale fixed-bed involving different types of conditions: inert (N2) or reactive (H2) gas feed; atmospheric and/or high pressure.
• Strong experience in analytical techniques for the detailed characterization of reaction products from the thermocatalytic conversion of organic waste, including gas chromatography with detectors other than MS (such as ECD, and FID); Karl-Fisher titration, halogen content in liquid and solid samples, thermogravimetry, elemental analysis, among others.
• Experience in synthesis of heterogeneous catalysts, mainly zeolitic-based materials, and their characterization by basic and advanced techniques.
• International research experience. International research stays during the postdoctoral period will be valued.
• Proven experience in the preparation of proposals with public and private funding, mostly those related to the research topic.
• Experience in supervision of Internships, technicians, Bachelor/Master Thesis and PhD Thesis.
• Strong publication record. Very good scientific writing skills, ability to write peer-reviewed papers independently.
• Oral and written communication skills in English.

• Adequacy of the candidate's training and experience to the requested profile.
• Experience in related to the profile of the job position.
• Quality and impact of scientific publications.
• Motivation for accomplishing high-quality research.
• Knowledge of English.

• Remuneration: Depending upon qualification and expertise.

*The contract includes all the benefits of the Spanish Public Health and Social Security System.

• Duration of the contract: 1 year, possibility of annual renewals depending on performance

IMDEA Energía, Móstoles, Madrid