Andrea I. Schäfer
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PhD position in Solar-Powered Electrodialysis for Brackish Water Treatment Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Dec 31, 2026
Country
Germany
University
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
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About this position
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is offering multiple PhD positions in solar-powered electrodialysis for brackish water treatment at the new Institute for Advanced Membrane Technology (IAMT), in collaboration with Prof. Bryce Richards (IMT). This research sits within the broader area of renewable energy-powered membrane processes and focuses on how electrodialysis can be adapted to fluctuating solar energy and non-steady-state operation.
The project targets the removal of inorganic contaminants from brackish water, including nitrate, arsenic, selenium, uranium, and fluoride. Students will work experimentally on a novel continuous electrodialysis system under fluctuating energy input, examine water contaminants in brackish water treatment, and compare results against established nanofiltration and reverse osmosis processes. The work also includes national and international field work, feasibility studies, and the development of an optimal energy management scenario together with renewable energy colleagues at IMT.
This PhD is designed as an in-depth research and development project leading to scientific publication and independent research training. Candidates will begin by defining research questions through a detailed literature survey and must submit a research proposal with a timetable for a four-year project at the application stage. The role includes experiments, sample and data analysis, write-up for publication, conference presentations, supervision of Master students, cooperation with internal and external partners, and a small amount of teaching.
Applicants should hold a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related equivalent discipline. Strong curiosity and a genuine interest in research are important. Experience with membrane filtration and electrochemical systems is considered a clear advantage, along with good experimental problem-solving abilities and confidence in specifying system components. Excellent English is required, and basic German is helpful. A valid driver's licence is required.
The position is based in Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany, with the application deadline listed as 2026-12-31. Applicants are asked to submit a CV, publication list and contribution statement if relevant, academic transcripts, degree certificates, the contact details of three referees, and a full research proposal to Prof. Dr.-Ing. Andrea I. Schäfer at [email protected].
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or an equivalent field. A strong interest in research is expected. Experience with membrane filtration and electrochemical systems is a definite advantage, as are skills in specifying system components and experimental problem solving. Excellent English language proficiency is essential, and basic German language skills are an advantage. A valid driver's licence is required. A full research proposal with a timetable for a four-year project is required at application stage.
How to apply
Send your CV, publication list and contribution details (if relevant), academic transcripts, degree certificates, contact details for three references, and a full research proposal to Prof. Andrea I. Schäfer. Prepare the proposal with a timetable for a four-year research project. Include all requested documents in the application.
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Professors
Prof. Dr.-Ing. at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
Germany
Research Interests
Renewable Energy Systems
Water Treatment
Environmental Science
Materials Science
Chemical Engineering
Prof. at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
Germany
Research Interests
Renewable Energy Systems
Chemical Engineering
Materials Science
Environmental Science
Water Treatment
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.