Marco Altomare

Postdoctoral Researcher in Paired Electrolysis for Biomass Valorization at the University of Twente The Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Twente and MESA+ Institute are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to work on paired electrolysis for biomass valorization . The project focuses on electrochemical routes that convert renewable feedstocks—especially biomass-derived acids and sugars—into value-added chemicals, with an emphasis on improving energy and atom efficiency by making both electrodes produce useful products. The research sits at the intersection of chemical engineering , electrochemistry , electrocatalysis , circular chemistry , and sustainable chemistry . The successful candidate will develop, fabricate, and optimize electrode materials and reactor concepts for the electrochemical reduction of pyrolytic sugars such as glucose and fructose. The work also includes paired electrolysis experiments coupling sugar reduction with water oxidation or carboxylic acid oxidation, as well as system-level analysis of efficiency and scalability. The position is embedded in a large, multi-partner research program and a national consortium (NWO Groenvermogen NL HyFINE), with industrial and academic collaborations including BTG Biomass Technology Group, Nobian, TNO, and Chaincraft. This offers strong exposure to scale-up, industrially relevant process design, and biomass-to-chemicals value chains. Eligibility highlights: applicants should have a PhD in chemical engineering, electrochemistry, catalysis, or a closely related field. The post also asks for a strong publication/patent record, conference experience, the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international environment, strong analytical and communication skills, fluent English, and motivation to supervise students and publish results. Funding and conditions: this is a full-time postdoctoral appointment for 18 months, with the option of a 32-hour temporary contract pro rata. Salary is €4,241–€5,538 gross per month (full-time), plus holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, pension, leave hours, hybrid working options, and access to campus sports and professional development support. Application window: apply online by 24 May 2026 . Upload a CV and motivation letter, and include publications/patents if applicable. Applications sent by email may not be considered.