We announce a Post-Doc vacancy in the research group ‘Membrane Technology for a Sustainable World’, led by Prof. Patricia Luis at UCLouvain (Belgium).

A 1-year postdoc grant is offered, starting in January 2026. The project is for one year but there is potential to get a 2-year extension (or 3-year extension) if a Spin-off is created. This is not ensured since it depends 100% on the candidate (interest and research achievements during the postdoc position).

Research topic:

Enzymatic capture and conversion of CO₂ in hollow fibre membrane contactors

The project aims at the synthesis of enzymatic hollow fibre membranes that can be ensembled into a membrane contactor to capture CO₂ and to convert it into pure bicarbonate salts. A flat-sheet membrane configuration was studied during the execution of the CO₂LIFE project (ERC Starting Grant), showing promising results in terms of enzyme activity and stability. However, the industrial application would benefit by a hollow fibre configuration that allows large membrane area per unit of volume. In the project, enzymatic hollow fibre membranes will be prepared using different enzyme immobilization methods, and the constructed membrane contactors will be tested in a pilot plant operating under industrial conditions. This project will thus provide novel membrane contactors for CO₂ capture. A strong interaction with industrial partners is expected during the project execution. Ideally, the candidate will propose the creation of a Spin-off company for further scaling up and industrialization of the membranes.

Deadline: 15th September 2025

Candidate Profile: Candidate with a PhD focused on membrane synthesis and/or membrane technology. A plus if the candidate has experience with the synthesis of hollow fibre membranes and immobilization of enzymes on membranes. The candidate should have the following aptitudes:

• Willing to work in an international group
• Sociable, team worker, helpful and friendly
• English is a mandatory language (high level in writing and spoken English). Speaking French is a plus.
• Interest in industrial applications and scaling up of membranes.
• Having an entrepreneurial aptitude is a plus (interest in creating a Spin-off).

How to Apply:: If interested, please send your CV, a motivation letter and one or more reference letters by email to: Prof. Patricia Luis: patricia.luis@uclouvain.be

An interview (online or in person) will be organized with the selected candidates.

More info about the research group is available at this link.