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Pennsylvania State University
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Postdoctoral Scholar – Process and Systems Modeling of Biomass Conversion Technologies The Pennsylvania State University in United States
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Available
Country
United States
University
Pennsylvania State University
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About this position
This postdoctoral opening is based in the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering in the College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University. The scholar will join Dr. Juliana Vasco-Correa’s laboratory on a collaborative project focused on developing and evaluating technologies for converting lignocellulosic biomass into value-added chemicals and bioproducts.
The research is centered on process and systems modeling for integrated biomass conversion pathways. The postdoctoral scholar will develop computational models to analyze biomass fractionation, catalytic and biochemical conversion, and downstream bioproduct upgrading. The work combines process simulation, techno-economic analysis, biomass supply chain and logistics modeling, and process optimization to evaluate technical and economic performance across different feedstocks, process configurations, and production scales.
The role involves equipment sizing, capital and operating cost estimation, economic performance evaluation, and sensitivity and uncertainty analyses. The scholar will work closely with multidisciplinary research teams, integrating experimental data into computational models and using model outputs to inform technology development. The position also includes independent leadership of modeling tasks, collaboration with project partners, and mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students.
The environment is strongly research-oriented and includes expectations for publishing in peer-reviewed journals, presenting at conferences and project meetings, and preparing technical reports. The role also offers mentorship and professional development opportunities aligned with the scholar’s career goals.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field and must be able to provide evidence that all requirements for completion of the Ph.D. have been met before the hire date. A Ph.D. in Chemical, Biological, Agricultural, Biosystems, Environmental Engineering, or a related discipline is required. Demonstrated experience in process modeling and simulation, including mass and energy balances, process design, and techno-economic analysis, is required. Experience with Aspen Plus and/or BioSTEAM is strongly preferred. Experience in biomass supply chain and logistics modeling, process optimization, and sensitivity and uncertainty analysis is desirable. Familiarity with lignocellulosic biomass conversion, biorefinery systems, and chemical and biochemical processing is preferred. Programming experience, particularly in Python, is desirable. Strong analytical, oral, and written communication skills, ability to work in multidisciplinary research teams, and a track record of peer-reviewed publications are expected.
How to apply
Prepare a single PDF containing a cover letter, CV with contact information for three references, and one or two representative publications. Submit the application through the Penn State Workday posting using the external applicant process if you are not a current Penn State employee or student.
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.