Postdoc in Organic Chemistry

Postdoc in Organic Chemistry
Department of Chemistry
Faculty of Science
University of Copenhagen

The Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science at University of Copenhagen invites applications for a Postdoc position focused on process scale-up and industrial implementation of chemical recycling technologies. The project is part of the research project “VPX CataCycle: Using Ammonium Bicarbonate in catalytic glycolysis of PET-depolymerization to efficiently and sustainably recover and recycle PET”, which is financed by VILLUM Power-to-X Accelerator (VPX), and the research will take part in the group led by Associate Professor Jiwoong Lee.

The project
Our research focuses on the efficient depolymerization and recycling of PET packaging materials using innovative catalytic and process engineering approaches. The goal is to develop and scale up a robust chemical recycling process that enables the sustainable recovery of high-purity monomers from PET waste. By integrating process intensification strategies and advanced reaction engineering techniques, we aim to optimize reaction conditions, improve catalyst efficiency, and design equipment for a scale-up. The candidate will be responsible for evaluating the feasibility of laboratory-scale recycling techniques for industrial-scale implementation, working on process design, optimization, and techno-economic analysis. This includes designing (continuous) reactor systems, optimizing separation techniques, and improving energy and material efficiency to ensure the optimal process scalability up to 100 kg scale.

Who are we looking for?
We are seeking an ambitious and highly motivated researcher with a strong background in process design and industrial chemistry who is eager to bridge fundamental chemical science with applications. The ideal candidate will have a passion for translating laboratory research into commercially viable technologies and contributing to innovative solutions in chemical process engineering. Applicants should hold a Master’s or Ph.D. degree in chemistry, materials science, process engineering, chemical engineering, industrial chemistry, or a related field. A strong background in process flow design, pipeline flow design, equipment parameter optimization, and reaction/reactor design and engineering is essential. Experience in process engineering, particularly in chemical process scale-up and optimization, would be beneficial. In assessing candidates, we will emphasize previous scientific publications and relevant work experience with reactor systems, separation techniques, and process control systems. The ability to integrate technical expertise with an entrepreneurial mindset will be a key factor, as we seek someone who can help drive research from the lab to industrial implementation. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute actively to ongoing research projects, participate in group meetings and seminars, and engage in interdisciplinary collaborations. Additionally, they will take part in supervising students, participating in laboratory activities, and contributing to outreach programs. Since the role includes some teaching responsibilities, strong communication and collaboration skills are required.

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a researcher who thrives in a dynamic environment and is motivated by the challenge of developing innovative process solutions that have real-world impact.

Our group and research- and what do we offer?
The group is located at the Department of Chemistry, Organic Chemistry section, Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. The group is also part of the Nanoscience Center and The Novo Nordisk Foundation CO2 Research Center (CORC). We are a dynamic and international research group of about 15 members situated in the center of Copenhagen. Our students and staff members come from different academic backgrounds, and have in common a deep curiosity and eagerness to do research in organic chemistry, methodology, organic synthesis that has real-world applications. We offer creative and stimulating working conditions. Postdocs will gain skills in diverse fields of chemical science, including inorganic, organic, and organometallic chemistry, materials science and catalysis.

Principal supervisor is Associate Professor Jiwoong Lee, Department of Chemistry, jiwoong.lee@chem.ku.dk, Direct Phone: 35333312.

The postdoc’s duties will include research within organic chemistry as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties.

Further information on the Department is linked at https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/. Inquiries about the position can be made to the group leader, Jiwoong Lee.

The position is open from 01.09.2025 or as soon as possible thereafter, and is for 2 years duration.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment
The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is April 30th 2025, 23:59 GMT +2.

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.