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Adriaan Mels

1 year ago

PhD in Sorption and Biodegradation of Surface-Active Chemicals in Anaerobic Granule-Based Bioreactors Wageningen University & Research in Netherlands

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Environmental Science

Funding

Available

Deadline

Expired

Country flag

Country

Netherlands

University

Wageningen University & Research

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Keywords

Environmental Science
Chemical Engineering
Materials Science
Surface Science
Nuclear Engineering
Fluid Mechanics
Process Engineering
Rheology
Biodegradation
Wastewater Treatment
Biofilm Formation
Biochemical Engineering
Anaerobic Digestion
Particle Image Velocimetry
Sorption
Shear Flow

About this position

This fully funded PhD position at Wageningen University & Research focuses on the sorption and biodegradation of surface-active chemicals (SACs) in anaerobic granule-based bioreactors, specifically within the recycled cardboard industry. The project aims to understand how commonly used SACs behave at the solid-liquid interface of microbial biofilms, such as anaerobic granular sludge, and to identify which chemicals contribute to process instabilities. By combining expertise in surface rheology, material science, food physics, and environmental process engineering, the research will systematically screen SACs through batch sorption-biodegradation experiments and continuous expanded granular sludge bed (EGSB) investigations. The goal is to assess the accumulation potential and impact of these chemicals on process performance under continuous flow conditions.

Key activities include investigating sorption kinetics and isotherms of SACs in solution and when attached to colloids, studying biodegradation kinetics, analyzing sorption and biodegradation in EGSB reactors, and performing particle image velocimetry in shear-controlled experiments. The project will also develop guidelines for controlling negative effects of SACs in anaerobic wastewater treatment. The research is embedded within the chair of Environmental Technology and the group of reusable water, led by Prof. Adriaan Mels, with co-supervision from Dr.

Dainis Sudmalis and collaboration with Dr. Mehdi Habibi and Dr. Leonard Sagis.

The project is funded by an NWO Open Technology Programme grant and involves close collaboration with industry partners such as Kemira, Paques B.V., DS Smith Kemsley, and Smurfit Westrock Roermond. Candidates should have an MSc in a relevant field, strong background in rheology, fluid dynamics, or bioprocess engineering, and be fluent in English at C1 level. Experience with programming (Python), sorption behavior of surfactants/polymers, and anaerobic bioreactors is a plus.

The position offers excellent employment terms, including a competitive salary, pension scheme, year-end bonus, and tailored training opportunities. Wageningen University & Research provides a supportive international environment, assistance with immigration procedures, and a focus on diversity and inclusion. Applications are open until November 25, 2025, with interviews scheduled for December 2, 2025.

Applicants must submit a CV, motivation letter, and complete a mandatory qualification form via the university's vacancy page.

Funding details

Available

What's required

Applicants must hold an MSc degree in physical chemistry, food physics, applied physics or mechanics, material science, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, or biotechnology. Strong background in rheology, fluid dynamics, or bioprocess engineering is required. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English at C1 level; an English proficiency certificate is required if the MSc was not obtained in the Netherlands or English is not the mother tongue. Official, stamped MSc degree certificate is required. Good command of programming languages like Python, experience with sorption behavior of surfactants/polymers, and experience with anaerobic bioreactors are considered a plus.

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Professors

Prof.

University Name
Country flag

Netherlands

Research Interests

Fluid Mechanics

Biochemical Engineering

Environmental Science

Climate Resilience

Civil Engineering

Dr. at Wageningen University & Research

University Name
Country flag

Netherlands

Research Interests

Biochemical Engineering

Fluid Mechanics

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Phd Studentship In: A Simple Approach To Tailoring Biofilms For Effective Removal Of Micropollutants During Wastewater Treatment

Wastewater Treatment

Dr. at Wageningen University & Research

University Name
Country flag

Netherlands

Research Interests

Biochemical Engineering

Food Science

Materials Science

Process Engineering

Chemical Engineering

Dr. at Wageningen University & Research

University Name
Country flag

Netherlands

Research Interests

Biochemical Engineering

Food Science

Surface Science

Environmental Science

Materials Science