KIT is one of the biggest research institutions worldwide and has access to state-of-the art research facilities within the National Research Centre of the Helmholtz Association and the former Technical University. The IFG-Membrane Technology Department was established in March 2014. As a PhD Candidate you will be responsible to work on a research project within one of the three main interest areas of the department (i) new membrane materials, (ii) membrane retention and fouling mechanisms, and (iii) membrane systems development – applied to water treatment.

This entails the identification of a set of research questions based on detailed literature survey and discussion of research needs with colleagues. Development of a research plan and timetable for the 3 year research project, set-up of required equipment and development of relevant analytical methods. Execution of the research plan through conducting of experiments, sample and data analysis and write up of results for scientific publication are part of the PhD process – a journey to become an independent researcher.

In addition, cooperation with internal and external partners, bachelor and master student supervision, oral presentations and contribution to teaching within the Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering are part of the candidate responsibilities. Travel and research funding is sought from national and international funding bodies. The position is not defined by a particular project and hence provides the opportunity for the candidate to develop a project of personal interest (obviously in agreement with the supervisor(s)).