Organisation/Company Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea (UPV/EHU) Department Vice-Rectorate for Research Research Field Engineering » Chemical engineering Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Application Deadline 5 Nov 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Madrid) Country Spain Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Other EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description

The NiF4SAF project aims to develop new catalytic technologies for the conversion of lignin-derived compounds, one of the main renewable sources of aromatic carbon, into hydrocarbons of interest for the production of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). The research will focus on the selective hydrodeoxygenation of phenolic compounds to obtain controlled mixtures of aromatics and cycloalkanes, seeking more sustainable alternatives to fossil-based aviation fuels. The PhD thesis will combine the design and preparation of advanced nickel-based catalysts, their characterization using different physicochemical techniques, and their evaluation in catalytic reactors. One of the main innovations will be the development of structured catalysts supported on open-cell ceramic foams and their application in continuous and intensified processes,



studying how catalyst composition, foam structure, and operating conditions determine the activity, selectivity, and stability of the process. The predoctoral researcher will receive multidisciplinary training in heterogeneous catalysis, materials science, advanced characterization techniques, product analysis, reactor engineering, and process intensification. They will work with both batch reactors and continuous-flow systems and will progressively participate in the analysis and interpretation of results, preparation of scientific publications, and attendance at international conferences. The training will be complemented by a research stay of at least three months at an international partner institution, with opportunities for interaction with European research groups and industrial stakeholders in the field of sustainable fuels. Overall, the thesis offers the opportunity to work on a project at the intersection of catalysis, biomass valorisation, sustainable energy, and aviation decarbonisation, while acquiring skills applicable to both academic research and industrial R&D.; Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or related fields Additional Information

Additional comments Please read carefully sections 4 and 7 of the call.

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📌 Continuous and Intensified Hydrodeoxygenation of Lignin-Derived Phenolics to Aromatics and Cycloalka (Madrid)
🏢 Universidad del Pais Vasco/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea (UPV/EHU)
📍 Madrid