Continuous Crystallizer Design (CFD) KU Leuven in Canada

Continuous Crystallizer Design (CFD) at KU Leuven

This postdoctoral position is based in the Department of Chemical Engineering at KU Leuven, within the research group of Prof. Simon Kuhn. The wider research environment focuses on transport processes and reactions in flow, combining experimental and computational approaches to overcome transport limitations and support scale-up from laboratory to production. The group works with microreactor technology, continuous and sustainable chemical processes, green activation methods such as ultrasound, photo- and electrochemistry, and particle handling and synthesis in flow systems. The position is also connected to the Process Engineering for Sustainable Systems (ProcESS) group, which has expertise in process intensification, alternative energy sources, and membrane technology.

The successful postdoctoral researcher will contribute to the ERC Advanced Grant project CrystalControl. The project aims to translate fundamental understanding of nucleation into advanced crystallizer concepts that enable precise control over crystal properties and support the transition to continuous pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Research activities include simulation of crystallization processes using CFD and particle-based methods such as DEM, design of structured crystallizers to control flow and particle interactions, optimization of flow patterns and shear fields in continuous systems, close collaboration with experimental researchers for validation, and contribution to process scale-up and crystallizer design strategies.

Applicants should hold a PhD in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline. A strong background in computational fluid dynamics, ideally including OpenFOAM, is required, together with experience in multiphase flow or particle simulations. The role also requires interest in linking simulations with experimental process development, adequate English for scientific communication, strong motivation, and a willingness to work across disciplinary boundaries.

KU Leuven offers a postdoc position within an international team with global research and industry links. Funding is initially available for 1 year, with the possibility of extension to 2 years.

The application deadline is 2026-08-24. Candidates should apply via the KU Leuven job application link. For further information, contact Prof. dr. ir. Simon Kuhn at [email protected].