Project
Fundamental studies on the hydrogenation of biobased oxygenates.
The project aims to develop insights in the hydrogenation platform of levulinic acid. This acid is accessible from the C6 sugars in lignocellulosic biomass and considered a very attractive platform chemical in current and future biorefineries. Derivatives obtainable by catalytic hydrogenation are interesting chemicals like valerolactone, propionic acid and 1,4-pentanediol. The project focuses on fundamental and spectroscopic studies on the hydrogenation of levulinic acid with heterogeneous catalysts to identify catalyst-product relations which will allow proper selection of catalyst formulation and reaction conditions to obtain the desired hydrogenation product.
Supervisors
Prof. H.J. Heeres and Dr. I.V. Melian Cabrera.
The vacancy is at the Institute for Technology, Engineering & Management.
Requirements
We are looking for a candidate with a Masters or equivalent degree in (heterogeneous) catalysis, with excellent laboratory skills, and an affinity with chemical reaction engineering. Experience with the synthesis, characterization and manipulation of (heterogeneous) catalysts is preferred.
Secundary
The University of Groningen offers a salary of minimal € 2,042 gross a month in the first year to maximal € 2,612 a month in the final year based on a full time position. It is a temporary assignment for a period of 4 years. First, you will get a temporary position of 1,5 years with the perspective of prolongation with another 2,5 years. After the first year, there will be an evaluation as to the feasibility of successful completion of the PhD thesis within the next three years.
Information
For information you can contact:
Prof. H.J.Heeres, H.J.Heeres@rug.nl
Additional information
Website University of Groningen