PhD in High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound for Crystallization at KU Leuven KU Leuven in Canada

KU Leuven is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position in High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound for Crystallization (ref. BAP-2026-412) within the Group of Process Intensification with Alternative Energy Forms, Department of Chemical Engineering, at KU Leuven in Leuven, Belgium.

The project focuses on applying high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to improve mineral carbonation and related separation/crystallization processes. The research connects sonochemistry, ultrasound-assisted processing, crystallization engineering, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), circular hydrometallurgy, and process intensification. The work is positioned at the intersection of sustainable chemical engineering, advanced materials processing, and environmental technologies.

The vacancy is supervised by Prof. Tom Van Gerven. The post is suitable for candidates interested in interdisciplinary research on gas injection, dispersion, crystallization, and sustainable process design for applications in carbon capture and circular metallurgy.

Eligibility highlights: a master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline; strong academic background; motivation for research; excellent written and spoken English; and an advantage for applicants with knowledge of sonochemistry and/or crystallization.

Funding: fully funded PhD position.

Deadline: 31 August 2026.

Interested applicants should use the KU Leuven vacancy page and follow the application instructions on the official job posting.