Interview with Suzana Nunes recognized as an Honorary Member of EMS
Congratulations, Prof. Nunes! What does it mean to you to receive the title of Honorary Member of the EMS?
It is a great honor. This distinction is reserved for a select group of scientists whom I deeply admire. Some of them have inspired me from the beginning of my career and were my role models.
Could you share what inspired you to dedicate yourself to membrane science?
My fascination with chemistry began at a young age, attracted by the magic of transformation and creation of materials. I attended a specialized high school dedicated to chemistry with labs and theory that are usually taught at the university. Continuing chemistry at the university, polymers attracted me because they were different and more complex than all I had learned before and at the same time I could directly see the industrial application. Complexity and challenges attract me, and I chose to work on polymer physical chemistry during my master under the supervision of Fernando Galembeck, who is one of the most prominent chemists in Brazil. He offered me a project on membrane development. In the first week of master, he brought me to the lecture of Ilya Prigogine, a Nobel Prize for his contribution to nonequilibrium thermodynamics and supermolecular order. This was a special experience and intensified my interest in related topics. Irreversible thermodynamics coupling different driving forces for transport in membranes became the topic of my PhD. During that time, I was particularly inspired by the work of Norman Li and Heiner Strathmann on membrane development and of Katchalsky and Ora Kedem on irreversible thermodynamics. They were my first heroes in membrane science. Besides chemistry, I have a passion for photography and working with electron microscopy naturally attracted me. Porous materials and membranes are excellent objects of inspiration for a photographer. In summary, membrane science gave me the chance to combine all I like: chemistry, materials sciences, thermodynamics and photography.
What message would you like to share with young researchers starting their careers in membrane science?
Membrane technology can offer solutions for some of the world’s most pressing challenges, such as ensuring sustainable access to resources, reducing energy consumption and the carbon footprint of the chemical and petrochemical industries, purifying pharmaceutical products, ensuring access to clean water, and driving innovation in biomedical devices. However, what may seem straightforward at a first glance can be deceiving. Membrane science is an interdisciplinary field. It has unique opportunities but also risks. To make a meaningful impact it is crucial to critically identify and address the right questions understanding the broader context in which they arise. The access to information online today is enormous. Take advantage of it, learn and analyze it critically. Innovation requires deep expertise in your specific area of focus, while setting alliances with experts in complementary fields. Don’t be “kidnapped by hypes”. Be honest with yourself and maintain integrity in your work and relationship with scientific collaborators and competitors.
What are your next goals in the field of membrane science?
My group has primarily focused on developing new materials and controlling morphology. I have worked on fuel cells and CO2 separation in Germany. At KAUST, I have shifted the focus to water-based separations, dehumidification, green solvents and nanofiltration of organic solvents. Currently, my co-workers are exploring the translation of selected membranes with high selectivity for ions and neutral molecules in water. Looking ahead, from a research perspective, my main interest is in the development of scalable, selective and stable nanofiltration membranes for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. I believe this is an area where membrane could have a much higher impact if better membranes will be available. While it requires overcoming substantial challenges, it also offers a great opportunity for chemists like me to collaborate with experts from other fields to advance the technology.
How do you see the role of the EMS in promoting membrane science and technology?
EMS has a very special role in promoting membrane science and technology in different forms. I would highlight some. First the EMS Summer School has provided fundamental knowledge in membrane science to generations of students and young scientists. The impact extends beyond education. It fosters a network of young scientists that may turn into valuable partnerships throughout their career. It also gives them the opportunity of interacting and learning from senior scientists that can become their mentors and role models. Second, events like Euromembrane, organized or supported by EMS, bring together enthusiastic scientists to celebrate achievements and exchange ideas. These forums facilitate sharing information and building new contacts. A third, though less immediately visible but very important is the representative role in environmental and political discussions. By engaging with influential bodies such as the European Commission, EMS leaders can highlight the importance of membrane science in addressing global challenges. Examples of past initiatives that brought different membrane groups together are large EU-funded networks (e. g. Nanomempro), educational Erasmus Master and PhD programs and Marie Curie training initiatives.
All three mentioned roles are important and should continue but maybe EMS could be more proactive in promoting membrane science to a broader scientific community and in platforms focused on environment and sustainability, particularly with the participation of policymakers. We should highlight even more that membrane technology offers solutions for a variety of challenges beyond the traditional applications. It is essential to communicate this more widely. Enrico Drioli had an instrumental role in promoting membrane technology through all these avenues. His efforts are a testament to the impact EMS can have. However, he was not alone. EMS has always benefited from strong leadership, including influential women in the field. I am confident that EMS will continue to grow in importance, expanding the visibility and relevance of membranes to a broader audience. I would be glad to contribute.
Do you have a particular memory related to the EMS that you’d like to share?
I have many memories associated with the EMS. It is difficult to choose one. My first involvement with EMS was at a conference co-organized by Enrico Drioli and Claudio Habert, a leading Brazilian membrane scientist, in Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro, which led to opportunities of collaborations between European and Brazilian colleagues. Klaus-Viktor (Peinemann), who was EMS President, introduced me to many EMS colleagues. We attended many EMS conferences and co-organized workshops together. I remember funny moments that go beyond science, like having dinner with fantastic pioneers in our field like Sydney Loeb and Miriam Balaban, during a conference in Barga, Tuscany, with Sydney playing with my 4-year-old son transforming a napkin into a rabbit. However, what I consider my personal most significant contribution in the EMS council and a particularly memorable experience was the series of Marie Curie summer schools that we organized over 5 years in various European countries. These schools trained many young scientists, and I believe they contributed to shape the future of a generation of membrane experts who are now active in the field. It is rewarding for me to have played a leading role in that initiative.
One last question: what emotions do you feel about being recognized as an Honorary Member?
When Elena (Tocci) told me that I would be named Honorary Member, it was a deeply emotional moment. I had not expected. It took me by surprise. I have great admiration for the distinguished group of honorary members and knowing that I’m now part of them makes the recognition very close to my heart.
Interview with Suzana Nunes recognized as an Honorary Member of EMS
Congratulations, Prof. Nunes! What does it mean to you to receive the title of Honorary Member of the EMS?
It is a great honor. This distinction is reserved for a select group of scientists whom I deeply admire. Some of them have inspired me from the beginning of my career and were my role models.
Could you share what inspired you to dedicate yourself to membrane science?
My fascination with chemistry began at a young age, attracted by the magic of transformation and creation of materials. I attended a specialized high school dedicated to chemistry with labs and theory that are usually taught at the university. Continuing chemistry at the university, polymers attracted me because they were different and more complex than all I had learned before and at the same time I could directly see the industrial application. Complexity and challenges attract me, and I chose to work on polymer physical chemistry during my master under the supervision of Fernando Galembeck, who is one of the most prominent chemists in Brazil. He offered me a project on membrane development. In the first week of master, he brought me to the lecture of Ilya Prigogine, a Nobel Prize for his contribution to nonequilibrium thermodynamics and supermolecular order. This was a special experience and intensified my interest in related topics. Irreversible thermodynamics coupling different driving forces for transport in membranes became the topic of my PhD. During that time, I was particularly inspired by the work of Norman Li and Heiner Strathmann on membrane development and of Katchalsky and Ora Kedem on irreversible thermodynamics. They were my first heroes in membrane science. Besides chemistry, I have a passion for photography and working with electron microscopy naturally attracted me. Porous materials and membranes are excellent objects of inspiration for a photographer. In summary, membrane science gave me the chance to combine all I like: chemistry, materials sciences, thermodynamics and photography.
What message would you like to share with young researchers starting their careers in membrane science?
Membrane technology can offer solutions for some of the world’s most pressing challenges, such as ensuring sustainable access to resources, reducing energy consumption and the carbon footprint of the chemical and petrochemical industries, purifying pharmaceutical products, ensuring access to clean water, and driving innovation in biomedical devices. However, what may seem straightforward at a first glance can be deceiving. Membrane science is an interdisciplinary field. It has unique opportunities but also risks. To make a meaningful impact it is crucial to critically identify and address the right questions understanding the broader context in which they arise. The access to information online today is enormous. Take advantage of it, learn and analyze it critically. Innovation requires deep expertise in your specific area of focus, while setting alliances with experts in complementary fields. Don’t be “kidnapped by hypes”. Be honest with yourself and maintain integrity in your work and relationship with scientific collaborators and competitors.
What are your next goals in the field of membrane science?
My group has primarily focused on developing new materials and controlling morphology. I have worked on fuel cells and CO2 separation in Germany. At KAUST, I have shifted the focus to water-based separations, dehumidification, green solvents and nanofiltration of organic solvents. Currently, my co-workers are exploring the translation of selected membranes with high selectivity for ions and neutral molecules in water. Looking ahead, from a research perspective, my main interest is in the development of scalable, selective and stable nanofiltration membranes for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. I believe this is an area where membrane could have a much higher impact if better membranes will be available. While it requires overcoming substantial challenges, it also offers a great opportunity for chemists like me to collaborate with experts from other fields to advance the technology.
How do you see the role of the EMS in promoting membrane science and technology?
EMS has a very special role in promoting membrane science and technology in different forms. I would highlight some. First the EMS Summer School has provided fundamental knowledge in membrane science to generations of students and young scientists. The impact extends beyond education. It fosters a network of young scientists that may turn into valuable partnerships throughout their career. It also gives them the opportunity of interacting and learning from senior scientists that can become their mentors and role models. Second, events like Euromembrane, organized or supported by EMS, bring together enthusiastic scientists to celebrate achievements and exchange ideas. These forums facilitate sharing information and building new contacts. A third, though less immediately visible but very important is the representative role in environmental and political discussions. By engaging with influential bodies such as the European Commission, EMS leaders can highlight the importance of membrane science in addressing global challenges. Examples of past initiatives that brought different membrane groups together are large EU-funded networks (e. g. Nanomempro), educational Erasmus Master and PhD programs and Marie Curie training initiatives.
All three mentioned roles are important and should continue but maybe EMS could be more proactive in promoting membrane science to a broader scientific community and in platforms focused on environment and sustainability, particularly with the participation of policymakers. We should highlight even more that membrane technology offers solutions for a variety of challenges beyond the traditional applications. It is essential to communicate this more widely. Enrico Drioli had an instrumental role in promoting membrane technology through all these avenues. His efforts are a testament to the impact EMS can have. However, he was not alone. EMS has always benefited from strong leadership, including influential women in the field. I am confident that EMS will continue to grow in importance, expanding the visibility and relevance of membranes to a broader audience. I would be glad to contribute.
Do you have a particular memory related to the EMS that you’d like to share?
I have many memories associated with the EMS. It is difficult to choose one. My first involvement with EMS was at a conference co-organized by Enrico Drioli and Claudio Habert, a leading Brazilian membrane scientist, in Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro, which led to opportunities of collaborations between European and Brazilian colleagues. Klaus-Viktor (Peinemann), who was EMS President, introduced me to many EMS colleagues. We attended many EMS conferences and co-organized workshops together. I remember funny moments that go beyond science, like having dinner with fantastic pioneers in our field like Sydney Loeb and Miriam Balaban, during a conference in Barga, Tuscany, with Sydney playing with my 4-year-old son transforming a napkin into a rabbit. However, what I consider my personal most significant contribution in the EMS council and a particularly memorable experience was the series of Marie Curie summer schools that we organized over 5 years in various European countries. These schools trained many young scientists, and I believe they contributed to shape the future of a generation of membrane experts who are now active in the field. It is rewarding for me to have played a leading role in that initiative.
One last question: what emotions do you feel about being recognized as an Honorary Member?
When Elena (Tocci) told me that I would be named Honorary Member, it was a deeply emotional moment. I had not expected. It took me by surprise. I have great admiration for the distinguished group of honorary members and knowing that I’m now part of them makes the recognition very close to my heart.
Postdoctoral Position in developing anion exchange membrane in Nordic Membrane Lab, Umeå, Sweden
Postdoctoral scholarship (2 years) in polymer synthesis focused on anion exchange membranes.
The Department of Chemistry at Umeå University seeks a postdoctoral fellow with a strong background in synthesizing monomers and polymers focused on anion exchange membranes.
The fellowship is full-time for two years with access from 1 August 2025 or by agreement.
The last day to apply is 31 March 2025.
Link for application: https://umustipendie.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:788079/
In Memory of Marianne Nyström
It is with deep sadness that we learn of the passing of Marianne Nyström. With her departure, the European membrane community lost another remarkable figure within a few weeks. Marianne Nyström was a distinguished figure in membrane technology, particularly in Finland. She served as a professor at Lappeenranta University of Technology (LUT) from 1998 to 2008, where she made significant contributions to the field. In recognition of her work, the European Membrane Society (EMS) honored her with the title of Honorary Member in 2011. Her research primarily focused on membrane technology applications, including water purification and dialysis treatments. She also played a pivotal role in fostering international collaboration, notably initiating the Scandinavian Membrane Network in partnership with the UK (Bath), facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise across borders. Marianne's legacy of fostering international collaboration and her dedication to scientific advancement will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her.
Our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
DANONE Strategic Planning & Corporate Development Internship: Strategy and New Business Development
Post Specification: Strategy and New Business Development Intern in Hoofddorp, NL office starting January 2025!
Closing date: Until filled.
Position: Temporary Full-Time
Internship details:
- Title: Water Processing and Sustainability Intern
- Company: Danone Research
- Duration: 6 months
- Location: Gif-sur-Yvette, France
- Eligibility: Master student in Strategic Management, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Business, Finance, or related studies during the whole internship period.
- Internship start date: Feb 2025
- Application Process: Apply through the link below. https://careers.danone.com/fr/fr/jobs/internship-water-processing-and-sustainability-intern-gif-february-2025-12937-en-us.htm
EMS Webinar Rescheduled: Join Us on November 13, 2024, for "Membrane Design for Ultrafast Transport and Precise Molecular Sieving" with Dr. Zhiwei Jiang
Title: Membrane design for ultrafast transport and precise molecular sieving
Date and Time: November 13, 2024 at 4:00 pm (CET time)
Location: EMS Youtube official channel, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBzUqWLIW-VXIDGLgI8QpiA
Abstract:
Energy-intensive separation processes in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries account for 10–15% of global energy consumption due to the heat required for phase changes in traditional evaporation and distillation methods. Membrane technologies, which separate molecules based on size or chemical affinity without phase changes, offer a promising alternative, potentially reducing carbon emissions by up to 90%. However, achieving precise control over membrane thickness and pore structure has long been a challenge in the field.
To overcome this, we have developed an interfacial polymerization process at a free interface, reducing the separating layer thickness to sub-10 nanometers, resulting in a dramatic increase in liquid permeation rates by orders of magnitude. Additionally, by introducing hydrophobic blocks into the precursors, we have shifted the affinity of membrane surfaces from hydrophilic to hydrophobic, facilitating rapid transport and selective fractionation in crude oil processing.
Moreover, incorporating porous materials with rigid, well-defined cavities, such as porous organic cages and macrocycles, into the membrane structure has allowed us to align their cavities as permeation channels across the membrane. This alignment enables precise control of pore dimensions with angstrom-level accuracy, allowing for the highly selective separation of pharmaceutical molecules with closely similar sizes. This breakthrough opens new possibilities for the use of membranes in the high-value pharmaceutical industry.
Biography:
Zhiwei Jiang completed his PhD in Chemical Engineering from Imperial College London in 2017, after which he continued as a postdoctoral research associate at both Imperial College and Queen Mary University of London. His research focuses on the design and fabrication of ultrathin, porous, and functionalized membranes for advanced separations, including reverse osmosis, hydrocarbon fractionation, and pharmaceutical enrichment. In 2022, he was awarded the Future Leaders Fellowships and subsequently began his current position as Head of Membrane Research at Exactmer Limited. His work has been recognized through the award of prizes including European federation of Chemical Engineering and European Membrane Society Joint Excellence Award in Membrane Engineering 2024, and European Membrane Society Young Academics Awards 2022.
Postdoc Position(s) Nanofiltration: Correlation of Experiment and Multi-Scale Modeling
Position: TvOD E13 100% for 1 year (extendable, start date flexible and position open until filled) or fellowships (e.g. Humboldt/Helmholtz/Marie Curie)
Hosting Institution: Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is one of the biggest research institutions worldwide and has access to state-of-the-art research facilities resulting from the merger of the National Research Centre of the Helmholtz Association and the former Technical University of Karlsruhe. This project is hosted by the Institute for Advanced Membrane Technology (IAMT) that was founded in 2020 with new state-of-the-art laboratories. https://www.iamt.kit.edu.
Project: Nanofiltration research at IAMT is focused on a materials and processes approach, where fundamental aspects are covered from novel material characterization to transport phenomena, while pilot scale systems are used in filed work applied to decentralized water supplies. Applications typically cover water treatment, encompassing water reuse and desalination. Relevant topics include micropollutant removal, transport of inorganic contaminants (e.g. arsenic, uranium, nitrate, fluoride) and complex phenomena of real water. IAMT has a suite of highly sensive analytical tools that enable high sample throughput at environmentally relevant concentrations. Filtration systems and devices are predominantly designed in-house and enable experimentation at the smallest scale with industrially relevant conditions. Extensive opportunity for international collaboration and up-scale exists. Modelling, in particular molecular dynamics modelling is carried out in collaboration to correlated experimental data with state-of-the-art models to better understand phenomena and to – ultmately – enable better material design through the availability of multiscale models. The position requires a person interested in;
- Designing excellent research projects in the field of nanofiltration and carry out laboratory experiments to gain fundamental principles undestanding (aided by masters or PhD students);
- Interest in upscale and contribute to pilot scale system development, construction and experimentation, including coupling with renewable energies;
- Develop hands-on, in collaboration with modeling experts, models to gain fundamental understanding and determine transfer parameters for model development.
The project choice is open within these boundaries and willingness to apply for fellowships will open further opportunities. There are numerous exciting mobility opportunities – including Australia – available to expand experience and networks. At postdoctoral level the preparation of research proposals and publications, participation in team responsibilities and activities as well as the supervision of students is a key requirement. Throughout the project, there will be additional opportunities for cooperation with internal and external partners, team events, as well as contributing to (a minimal amount of) teaching.
Qualifications: The ideal candidate will hold a PhD in Chemical, Process, Environmental Engineering, or equivalent and is a naturally curious ‘can do’ person, eager to learn more and has a strong interest in research. Experience with membrane filtration is a requirement and modelling (of any scale) a definite advantage. Further requirements are experience in specifying system components, sound experimental problem-solving skills, micropollutant/water analysis and a solid publication track record – as well a good common sense. Excellent English language proficiency is essential, basic German language skills of advantage. A valid driver’s licence is required.
Contact:
- Prof. Dr. Andrea I. Schäfer, Institute for Advanced Membrane Technology (IAMT), +49(0)721 608 26906,
Andrea.Iris.Schaefer@kit.edu, https://www.iamt.kit.edu
Applications: Please send applications with cover letter addressing position requirements, CV, publication list and your contribution to the publication (if relevant), academic transcripts, degree certificates, contact details for three references and a research proposal on the topic within your interests to the above contact(s). It is strongly advised to visit the IAMT website as well as read the numerous publications on the topic.
Process Engineer / PhD Position Design and Implementation of Membrane Filtration Systems in Africa
Position: TVL E13, 50% for 3 years
Hosting Institution: Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is one of the biggest research institutions worldwide and has access to state-of-the-art research facilities resulting from the merger of the National Research Centre of the Helmholtz Association and the former Technical University of Karlsruhe. This project is hosted by the Institute for Advanced Membrane Technology (IAMT): https://www.iamt.kit.edu.
Project: Renewable energy powered membrane technologies have been developed for hybrid ultra- and nanofiltration as well as electrodialysis for brackish water desalination. Non-continuous operation is a focus of both laboratory and fieldwork. Concentrate management remains a key challenge for the implementation of such technologies. This position will focus on this challenge with an emphasis on Tunisia which suffers from water-scarcity with availability of brackish water. SEED+, a project funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), aims to address this issue through the implementation of membrane technologies for brackish water desalination as this can make marginal water available for drinking and irrigation in Tunisia with a broader view for MENA region as well as Sub-Saharan Africa. As part of the project, a demonstration of the photovoltaic-powered electrodialysis (PV-ED) system is planned for fieldwork in Tunisia. A mobile unit is already set up in IAMT for this purpose. The project is developed with the following objectives:
- Design a novel membrane distillation system in cooperation with industry partner(s) and develop strategies for concentrate management using hybrid processes;
- Carry out laboratory and field experiments with photovoltaic-powered membrane systems, investigating the performance (water quality, water productivity, and energy) during intermittent operations;
- Organize field trials, including the planned fieldwork in Tunisia, to evaluate the treatment needs, demonstrate the membrane technology to stakeholders, and explore technology transfer options.
The Process Engineer or PhD candidate will work on the project objectives in close interactions with international collaborators from both academia and industry, internal collaborators at KIT, and more importantly with local communities during the field trials. System design and installation, logistics of fieldwork organization, workshops organization, preparation of publications, as well as reporting to the funding agencies are the key responsibilities.
Qualifications:
- Master in Chemical, Process, Environmental Engineering, or equivalent.
- A strong interest in water treatment processes and experience with membrane processes
(nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, membrane distillation) - Experience in defining the specifications of components needed for the design of water
treatment processes and operation of pilot systems. - Knowledge of water chemistry and water analysis.
- Excellent English language proficiency (basic German language skills are welcome).
- Willingness to travel to Africa for project meetings and fieldwork.
- Administrative project management and reporting.
- Valid driving license.
Contact:
- Dr. Youssef-Amine Boussouga, IAMT, +49 (0)721 608 2436, Youssef-Amine.Boussouga@kit.edu
- Prof. Dr. Andrea I. Schäfer, IAMT, +49 (0)721 608 26906, Andrea.Iris.Schaefer@kit.edu
Applications: Please send applications with CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts, degree certificates, and contact details for three references. A research proposal will be requested for PhD candidates; relevant information can be found on the IAMT website (publications, proposal, etc). Start Date 1 Jan 2025 (negotiable)
Passing of Prof. Enrico Drioli
Dear EMS Members,
With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Prof. Enrico Drioli, co-founder and Honorary President of the European Membrane Society.
His visionary work and passion shaped the field of membrane science, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations. He will be deeply missed.
Elena Tocci on behalf of the EMS Council
EMS Webinar November 6, 2024: Membrane Design for Ultrafast Transport and Precise Molecular Sieving, Dr. Zhiwei Jiang
Title: Membrane design for ultrafast transport and precise molecular sieving
Date and Time: November 6, 2024 at 4:00 pm (CET time)
Location: EMS Youtube official channel, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBzUqWLIW-VXIDGLgI8QpiA
Abstract:
Energy-intensive separation processes in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries account for 10–15% of global energy consumption due to the heat required for phase changes in traditional evaporation and distillation methods. Membrane technologies, which separate molecules based on size or chemical affinity without phase changes, offer a promising alternative, potentially reducing carbon emissions by up to 90%. However, achieving precise control over membrane thickness and pore structure has long been a challenge in the field.
To overcome this, we have developed an interfacial polymerization process at a free interface, reducing the separating layer thickness to sub-10 nanometers, resulting in a dramatic increase in liquid permeation rates by orders of magnitude. Additionally, by introducing hydrophobic blocks into the precursors, we have shifted the affinity of membrane surfaces from hydrophilic to hydrophobic, facilitating rapid transport and selective fractionation in crude oil processing.
Moreover, incorporating porous materials with rigid, well-defined cavities, such as porous organic cages and macrocycles, into the membrane structure has allowed us to align their cavities as permeation channels across the membrane. This alignment enables precise control of pore dimensions with angstrom-level accuracy, allowing for the highly selective separation of pharmaceutical molecules with closely similar sizes. This breakthrough opens new possibilities for the use of membranes in the high-value pharmaceutical industry.
Biography:
Zhiwei Jiang completed his PhD in Chemical Engineering from Imperial College London in 2017, after which he continued as a postdoctoral research associate at both Imperial College and Queen Mary University of London. His research focuses on the design and fabrication of ultrathin, porous, and functionalized membranes for advanced separations, including reverse osmosis, hydrocarbon fractionation, and pharmaceutical enrichment. In 2022, he was awarded the Future Leaders Fellowships and subsequently began his current position as Head of Membrane Research at Exactmer Limited. His work has been recognized through the award of prizes including European federation of Chemical Engineering and European Membrane Society Joint Excellence Award in Membrane Engineering 2024, and European Membrane Society Young Academics Awards 2022.