Postdoc Position in Pushing the Boundaries of an Existing Industrial Production Process

Postdoc Position in Pushing the Boundaries of an Existing Industrial Production Process

ACIB - Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology

Graz, Austria

That’s the project

The ongoing project aims to improve the efficiency of an existing industrial conversion process by replicating it at laboratory and pilot scale, establishing robust process models, and developing targeted optimization strategies. The most promising enhancements will be assessed for industrial-scale implementation through comprehensive techno‑economic and operational feasibility evaluations. We are seeking a highly motivated Chemical Engineer, (Bio)process Engineer, or Technical Chemist with strong engineering background to join our project team.

That will be your tasks

• Develop and compare process performance across scales (lab, pilot and manufacturing);
• Identify and evaluate Critical Process Parameters (CPPs) and Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs);
• Perform process modelling, incl. mass/energy balances, dynamic simulations, scaleup risk assessment;
• Conduct sustainability evaluations (material efficiency, energy consumption, waste minimization, lifecycle considerations);
• Support technology transfer by preparing scale-up guidelines, process descriptions, and documentation for manufacturing;
• Collaborate closely with our industry partner on joint development activities;
• Contribute to process optimization efforts, including yield improvement and cost reduction;
• Document and present your results through various formats, such as scientific reports, publications, oral presentations, and posters.

That’s important to us

Ideally, you hold a degree from a recognized university in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or related field (MSc or PhD preferred). We are particularly interested in candidates with the following skills and experience:

• Strong knowledge of reaction kinetics, thermodynamics, and transport phenomena;
• Experience with scale-up principles, pilot plant operation, or manufacturing environments;
• Familiarity with process modelling tools (e.g., Aspen Plus, gPROMS, Matlab) is an advantage;
• Understanding of green chemistry and sustainability metrics;
• Structured working style, strong analytical mindset, and excellent communication skills;
• Ability to work cross-functionally in dynamic, interdisciplinary teams;
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken;
• Strong problem-solving skills and effective self-management and organizational skills.