PhD scholarship in Developing and Applying Digital Twin Technology to a (High Shear) Granulation Process – DTU Chemical Engineering

The PhD student will be part of the PROSYS research centre at the Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering. Our research in the centre has focus on process systems engineering, on fermentation, biocatalysis and downstream processing. Most of our activities are in close collaboration with industry and other academic partners. This project will be performed in close collaboration with Novonesis A/S. 

The position is part of a research project funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. It is a collaborative project involving DTU, Novonesis A/S and Helix Lab Kalundborg. The objective of the project is the development and validation of a model for high shear granulation processes in operation at Novonesis production sites. The project must be seen in view of the general trend towards digitalization of pilot and full-scale processes, including the application of models in all phases of new product development. The main novelty of the PhD project is the introduction of mathematical modelling and Industry 4.0 (digital twins) on the industrial scale high shear granulation process, a process that is key to the formulation of solid products at Novonesis. The project is highly interactive, and you will work together with both industrial and academic experts in the field.

Responsibilities and qualifications
The focus of this PhD position is on the development and implementation of dynamic models for granulation processes. More specifically, the candidate is expected to:

• Set up a detailed mathematical model for high shear granulation at industrial scale 
• Validate the mathematical model with relevant data collected at industrial scale 
• Apply AI / machine learning to support on-line deployment of the mathematical model for real-time prediction 
• Using the model, investigate and prioritize opportunities for achieving high shear granulation process improvements

Candidates should have a master’s degree in chemical or biochemical engineering or closely related fields like e.g. mechanical engineering with the focus on fluid dynamic simulations.

Furthermore, the ideal candidate should have hands-on experience from modelling material transport in fluidized beds or spray drying. Experimental background in the field of spray drying or granulation is an advantage. 

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

Approval and Enrolment 
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education. 

Assessment
The assessment of the PhD candidates will be made by Assoc. Prof. Ulrich Krühne in collaboration with Helix Lab Kalundborg.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Assoc. Prof. Ulrich Krühne at ulkr@kt.dtu.dk.

You can read more about DTU Chemical Engineering at www.kt.dtu.dk. 

As a PhD student, you will work closely with both the industry partner and Helix Lab Kalundborg, a visionary center for research and education that enhances collaboration between industry and universities. You are expected to be proactive and engaged throughout the project, contributing to the development of the research community at Helix Lab alongside peers - other PhD students, Helix Lab Fellows, and specialists in Kalundborg. Additionally, you are expected to serve as a strong ambassador for Helix Lab. 

You will spend approximately 50% of your time in Kalundborg, divided between the industry partner and Helix Lab laboratories.