Continuous Crystallizer Design (CFD)

This work will be carried out in the research group of Prof Kuhn in the Department of Chemical Engineering at KU Leuven. The Kuhn group focuses on transport processes and reactions in flow, combining experimental and computational approaches to address transport limitations and their scale-up from lab to production. Using microreactor technology, we develop continuous and sustainable chemical processes, integrating green activation methods (e.g. ultrasound, photo- and electrochemistry) and advancing particle handling and synthesis in flow systems. We also form part of the larger Process Engineering for Sustainable Systems (ProcESS) group at the Department of Chemical Engineering with expertise in process intensification, use of alternative energy sources and membrane technology.
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Responsibilities

We are seeking an outstanding postdoctoral researcher to develop novel continuous crystallization platforms within the ERC Advanced Grant project CrystalControl. 

The project translates fundamental insights into nucleation into advanced crystallizer concepts, enabling precise control of crystal properties and supporting the transition to continuous pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Research Focus

• Simulation of crystallization processes using CFD and particle-based methods (e.g. DEM)
• Design of structured crystallizers to control flow and particle interactions
• Optimization of flow patterns and shear fields in continuous systems
• Close collaboration with experimental researchers for validation
• Contribution to process scale-up and crystallizer design strategies

Profile

• Requirement: PhD in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
• Strong background in CFD (e.g. OpenFOAM)
• Experience with multiphase flow or particle simulations
• Interest in linking simulation with experimental process development
• Adequate English (written and verbal communication) for scientific interactions required
• Strong motivation is a must
• Willingness to work at interdisciplinary boundaries

Offer

The successful candidate will be offered a post-doc position to become part of our international team with global research and industry links. Funding can be initially provided for a period of 1 year, with the option of extension to 2 years.

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Simon Kuhn, mail: [email protected].

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