Postdoc in Water Thermodynamics - DTU Chemical Engineering

The Center for Energy Resources Engineering (CERE) within the Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering (DTU Chemical Engineering) of the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) welcomes aspiring candidates to expand the field of two-state water thermodynamics.

This PostDoc project is funded by the Villum Experiment Programme “Can the two-state theory of water revolutionize aqueous solutions?”, which aims to investigate and prove that water behaves as a two-state liquid when mixed with other molecules, by demonstrating that the two-state theory of water can capture anomalous mixture properties.

Responsibilities and qualifications
Water exhibits a unique anomalous behavior, which can be explained by the two-state theory, postulating that that water is a two-state liquid. The purpose of this project is to study the implications of the two-state water theory on aqueous mixture properties using the following directions:

• Assessing the extent of the influence of different solutes in water structure using molecular dynamics
• Developing molecular models for mixtures of two-state water

We are looking for a PostDoc that is highly motivated and strives for academic excellence. You should enjoy approaching a research topic from different points of view and be able to navigate through different theories to arrive at a unifying framework.

You should be able to work independently, but also enjoy working in a team, be open, honest and conduct research responsibly.

The ideal candidate should have:

• a strong background in chemical engineering thermodynamics, physical chemistry, water, or a related field
• experience in mathematical modelling and scientific programming
• excellent written and spoken English communication skills

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). 

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 terms of employment 
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 2 years, with starting date on 1 August 2026 or according to mutual agreement. 

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information
Further information may be obtained from Researcher Nefeli E. Novak, (nefno@kt.dtu.dk), Associate Prof. Xiaodong Liang (xlia@kt.dtu.dk) and Prof. Georgios M. Kontogeorgis (gk@kt.dtu.dk).

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

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 15 April (23:59 Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A motivation letter (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

CERE is an independent, university-based, research unit with more than 45 years of expertise in the field. The CERE co-workers are a mix of internationally renowned scientists and the sharpest young talents from different scientific communities around the group. The research center unites experience with unique talent and educates tomorrow's scientists and engineers. The education and training of MSc and doctoral students are some of the most important aspects of CERE's activities.

At DTU Chemical Engineering  it is our mission to develop and utilize knowledge, methods, technologies, and sustainable solutions within: Chemical and biochemical process engineering and production, Design of chemical and biochemical products and processes, Energy and environment.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.