PhD position: Automated thermodynamics lab for molecular and process design

The Energy and Process Systems Engineering (EPSE) Group at ETH Zürich is looking for a doctoral student to work experimentally on thermophysical property data of fluids. The EPSE group at ETH Zurich, led by Prof. Dr. André Bardow, is dedicated to advancing sustainable energy and chemical process systems. Our research spans from the molecular level to the scale of systems. We develop methods to advance sustainable energy and chemical process systems from the molecular to the scale of the systems. Our work combines computer-aided molecular and process design to optimize molecules and processes simultaneously. To holistically evaluate the environmental impacts of chemicals and energy systems, we develop predictive methods for Life Cycle Assessment. Our technological focus is sector coupling, sustainable carbon feedstock, and carbon capture, utilization, and storage.

Developing sustainable chemical processes requires accurate experimental thermophysical property data. Although experimental data are crucial, they are often scarce because traditional experiments are too expensive, laborious, time-consuming, and prone to errors to support rapid process design.

This project aims to overcome the limitations of experiments by integrating advanced modeling techniques with experiments. Our experiments combine microfluidics and laser spectroscopy, enabling us to explore complex phenomena such as multi-component phase equilibria, diffusion, and reactions. The experiments are embedded within optimization-driven experimental design frameworks to reduce time and effort.

The project aims to combine experiments for individual fluid properties into an automated experimental platform that simultaneously yields several pure and multi-component fluid properties. The resulting automated thermodynamics lab will facilitate rapid design and validation of sustainable processes for chemicals.

Your main task will be designing, setting up, and performing novel experiments utilizing microfluidics, spectroscopy, and lab automation driven by algorithms to conduct closed-loop, self-optimizing experiments autonomously. Initial experiments will investigate phase equilibria and transport processes in liquid mixtures. You will assess the data, fit property models, and integrate your results into process optimizations. The new data and further understanding of fluid phase behavior will enable the advancement of property models and the development of novel processes.

Your role will also involve mentoring and co-supervising student projects and theses. Additionally, you will engage in various group and institute duties and activities. As an integral part of your work, you will publish your results in peer-reviewed journals and present them at international conferences.

You meet the requirements for a doctoral program at ETH Zurich and have an excellent Master's or diploma in chemical engineering, process engineering, mechanical engineering, energy science & technology, physical chemistry, or a related field. Ideally, you already have experience working experimentally, preferably in setting up experiments and using microfluidics and spectroscopy. You are interested and able to develop model-based methods for experimental design and analysis. You are highly motivated to learn and apply modern experimental and simulation techniques. The ability to work independently and excellent communication and writing skills in English complete your profile.

We offer a full-time position for the duration of your doctoral studies, starting upon agreement with the earliest starting of 1st of March, 2025. We are providing a supportive environment that fosters professional and personal growth. You will join a dynamic, motivated and interdisciplinary team of researchers with expertise in thermodynamics, process design, energy system optimization, and life cycle assessment, working collaboratively with research and industry partners. You will work an inspiring, collaborative environment to address critical global challenges. It includes opportunities to engage in group discussions and collaborative efforts spanning from the molecular level to the systems scale, offering insights into diverse methods and approaches.

The PhD position provides access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and experimental setups, enabling impactful research. The position supports the development of critical thinking, data analysis, problem-solving, and project management skills while contributing to the broader academic community through publications and presentations at leading conferences.