Postdoc position in towards a circular plastics economy within the planetary boundaries

ETH Zurich seeks a Postdoc to research optimal pathways for a circular plastics economy within planetary boundaries, focusing on recycling, CCU, and biomass integration.

The position supports a project that examines how to build a circular industry by maximizing the potential of plastics recycling, carbon capture and utilization, and biomass. It takes a broad systems view on the early development of future technologies in the chemical and plastic sectors.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine internal models that track global production routes for major chemicals and plastics.
• Incorporate new technologies for alternative carbon streams, with a focus on chemical recycling while also considering carbon capture and utilization (CCU) and biomass.
• Use mathematical optimization to pinpoint sustainable supply chains for the chemical and plastic sectors, evaluating trade-offs against environmental goals.
• Perform techno-economic and life cycle assessments of integrated production systems through mathematical optimization.
• Work closely with academic and industry partners.
• Provide co-supervision to PhD students engaged in the project.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.

Requirements

• PhD in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, process engineering, or energy science & technology from an accredited institution.
• Proven expertise in conceptual process design, simulations, life cycle assessment, alternative carbon source technologies, and programming.
• Fluent English communication skills, both written and spoken.

What the company offers

• Full-time employment for the postdoc period.
• An initial one-year contract, with plans for a two-year extension.
• Optional involvement in the group's teaching activities.
• A family-friendly workplace with excellent working conditions.
• An engaging environment characterized by cultural diversity and attractive benefits.

About the company

ETH Zurich hosts the ERC Advanced Grant DISC3Lab, which aims to create a validated discovery loop for sustainable chemical processes, specifically targeting solvent-based plastic recycling. The lab's broader goal is to help the chemical industry operate safely within planetary boundaries.

• Focus on sustainable chemical processes and solvent-based plastic recycling.
• Commitment to helping the chemical industry operate within planetary boundaries.
• Family-friendly environment with excellent working conditions.
• Culturally diverse and engaging workplace.