PDRA in Scalable Thermochemical Reactors & Processes - Energy & Fuel Conversion

Full Time, Fixed Term for 24 months

Join us and be part of a vibrant community at Loughborough University. 

Here’s more about the role and what we’re looking for:

We are looking for an engineer or scientist with proven experience in the development and innovation of thermochemical reactors suitable for integration with intermittent renewable energy sources. In this role you will develop thermochemical reactors and processes that use abundant molecules like water, nitrogen and carbon dioxide, as raw materials for fuels derived from green hydrogen and that are suitable for integration with intermittent renewable energy sources. The focus of the role is to advance and intensify scalable thermochemical reactor prototypes to fulfil the technical, economic and environmental demands of a successful net zero energy transition. This includes conceptualising, implementing and characterising effects of novel cell architectures and process innovations targeting integration for energy to fuel conversions and vice versa.

Key Requirements:

• Extensive and proven experience in development and innovation of thermo chemical reaction processes and continuous flow reactors in a research and/or industrial setting.
• Strong knowledge of thermochemical and kinetics analytical techniques as well as process performance and stability evaluation.
• Hands on experience of product analysis using gas chromatography, mass spectrometry and/or infra-red spectroscopy.
• Proven track record of rigorous research including scientific publications in peer reviewed journal papers and conference presentations or at least one patent filed on thermochemical reactors and/or processes.
• Hands on experience in at least two of the following (i) design, construction and optimisation of high temperature/pressure chemical reactors, (ii) real time online control and monitoring of dynamic reactions, (iii) automation of data acquisition and process control using LabVIEW or equivalent and (iv) construction and operating chemical reaction test benches.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof. Sonya Calnan, via email to s.calnan@lboro.ac.uk or by telephone to 01509 225837.

For more information refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.

Closing Date: 28 April 2025

Please accompany your application with one document which includes:

• a cover letter briefly describing your qualifications and motivation for this position.
• a curriculum vitae.
• a list of your publications highlighting your self-selected top 2 and/or relevant achievements e.g. patent, or contributions to collaborative projects. 

Interview Date: week commencing 5 May 2025

Our Benefits

• Generous annual leave allowance up to 44 days (inclusive of Bank Holidays & University closure days)
• Competitive pension schemes
• A range of childcare support initiatives and benefits including childcare vouchers; on-site university nursery (with salary sacrifice scheme); and holiday play schemes.
• We offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies.
• BUPA Cash Plan (100 scheme)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket loan scheme
• On campus parking with charging points for electric vehicles
• Fantastic range of sports facilities and preferential membership packages available

Loughborough University is committed to achieving equality and valuing diversity in all aspects of employment and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. 

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