Research expert in the field of upscaling and automation of solvent extraction of energy-trans metals

Research expert in the field of upscaling and automation of solvent extraction of energy-trans metals

KU Leuven is an autonomous university. It was founded in 1425. It was born of and has grown within the Catholic tradition.

Group Science and Technology, Department Chemistry, group SOLVOMET is looking for a Research Expert in the field of solvent extraction of energy-transition metals.
The SOLVOMET Group (Department of Chemistry, Group W&T) is an internationally renowned research group in the domain of metallurgical chemistry and circular hydrometallurgy. The SOLVOMET Group, which is coordinated by Prof. Koen Binnemans, is part of the KU Leuven Institute for Sustainable Metals and Minerals (SIM² KU Leuven).
Through our SOLVOMET Research & Training Centre we support our industrial partners (mining and metallurgical sector) in the development of more sustainable, circular hydrometallurgical processes, using in-house state-of-the-art lab-scale and (mini)-pilot-scale experimental facilities.
For the further development of the competences of the SOLVOMET Group and its R&T Centre, we are looking for a Research Expert in the field of upscaling & automation of solvent extraction processes tailored for energy-transition metals (cobalt, nickel, manganese, lithium, rare earths and copper). Such solvent extraction processes are essential within the broader SOLVOMET theme of circular hydrometallurgy. Circular hydrometallurgical processes comprise flowsheets with virtually (net) zero consumption of chemicals and a minimum in energy input.
Website unit

Responsibilities

As a research expert on upscaling and automation of solvent extraction of energy-transition metals, you will:

• lead and conduct independent research in industrially relevant solvent extraction, developing innovative concepts, publishing high-impact results, and supervising PhD and master thesis students;
• train researchers and staff in the operation of mini-pilot solvent extraction equipment (mixer-settlers, centrifugal contactors, columns);
• advance expertise in circular hydrometallurgy, with a focus on upscaling solvent extraction processes for recovery, purification and separation of energy-transition metals (cobalt, nickel, manganese, lithium, rare earths and copper);
• develop and implement automation strategies for pilot-scale equipment, including integration of in-line/on-line analytical techniques (e.g., UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, EDXRF);
• advise on acquisition of equipment for solvent extraction and analytical characterization;
• coordinate maintenance, operation, and user training for pilot-scale equipment and analytical instruments;
• lead and contribute to industrial bilateral research projects, ensuring excellent collaboration with industrial partners;
• plan, coordinate, and review research activities within the research group and SIM² KU Leuven;
• represent SOLVOMET KU Leuven in European and multi-partner projects, including network-wide events;
• prepare and contribute to competitive research proposals (EU MSCA, EU RIA/IA, VLAIO SBO/ICON/O&O programs) in collaboration with research managers and experts in SIM² KU Leuven, as well as external project partners and coordinators;
• provide occasional teaching support.

Profile

The candidate is expected to:

• hold a PhD in Chemistry or a closely related discipline;
• have more than 5 years research experience in the field of solvent extraction in hydrometallurgy;
• have hands‑on experience in upscaling of solvent extraction processes for metals (HAZOP analysis, flowsheet optimization);
• have practical experience with pilot-scale equipment, including mixer-settlers, centrifugal contactors, and columns (design, operation, troubleshooting);
• have advanced knowledge of analytical techniques, such as ICP-OES, UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, EDXRF, WDXRF and TXRF for quantification of metals in aqueous and organic solutions;
• be skilled in data interpretation, reporting, and scientific dissemination;
• have experience managing European and bilateral research projects (scope, budget, timelines), including collaboration with industrial partners.
• demonstrate team management skills;
• perform effectively in deadline-driven, multi-project environment;
• be willing to occasionally travel internationally for conferences, workshops, and project meetings (approx. 3–5 trips/year);
• speak fluent English and Dutch (or be willing to learn Dutch). Any other European language(s) is (are) a plus;
• be a strong communicator (both oral and written);
• be an ambassador for SOLVOMET KU Leuven, showing strong leadership and great enthusiasm.

Offer

An exciting and challenging job, focused on continuous innovation and development. We offer a permanent and full-time position