PhD student in plasma physics

Project description

HES-SO is working on laboratory scale plasma reactors for various applications in industry. This project focusses on the development of plasma reactors, which will convert mixed plastic waste from households directly into commonly used chemical feedstock gases of chemical industry. In the framework of the 4-year lasting project plasma reactors will be designed, build, tested and optimized in parallel with simulations of the major processes occurring in the whole process.

The experimental part will be the main occupation, while modelling will allow faster prototyping of improved versions and future upscaling to industrial scale demonstration. Plasma analysis techniques will form part of the experimental work, like for example OES, power analysis, Langmuir probes (wherever possible). The analysis of generated gas (composition, concentration and optimization through FTIR, GC or MS) will be the main output of the experimental part of the project. Analysis of eventual solid residues will be done by partner organization institutes. Besides the experimental work, modeling of the electrical circuits and impedance calculations for power loss analysis will be required, as well as finite element modeling of the plasma conditions which may lead to a better understanding of the ongoing chemical reactions and eventually to an optimization of the plastic conversion process in the plasma.

The candidate will work in the plasma laboratory with state-of-the-art equipment, strong collaboration with electrical and mechanical workshops and together with the analytical platforms for material and chemical analysis at HES-SO and the neighboring EPFL. The work will cover both basic and applied research, with the prospect of patenting and publishing in leading journals and regular participation to conferences. The project will require data acquisition, management and release in an open science framework.
The successful candidate will integrate with the doctoral school of university of either Lausanne, Bern or Fribourg who must approve the engagement.

Your profile

• Master in experimental plasma physics, microtechnology or electrical engineering, or in a related field

• Previous experience with plasma experiments, vacuum technology and spectroscopy is an advantage

• Experience with HF and design tools (CAD) is a plus

• In addition to English, good language skills in French and/or German are a plus

• Highly motivated with self-initiative, curiosity, appeal for novelty

• Strong problem-solving attitude, well organized, with a strong scientific mindset and a good sense of initiative

• Able to keep track of the results and to present science advancements, genuine interest in scientific writing

• Good communicator and willing to supervise Bachelor/Master students

• Team player, collaborative and keen to integrate into a multidisciplinary team