For global students passionate about clean water, sustainable technology, and real-world environmental impact, the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany, is offering a compelling PhD opportunity. Hosted at the Institute for Advanced Membrane Technology (IAMT) in partnership with Prof. Bryce Richards (IMT), this PhD position focuses on a cutting-edge topic: solar-powered electrodialysis for the treatment of brackish water.
Project Overview
This research-intensive PhD project dives into one of the most promising intersections of renewable energy and water treatment. The focus is on the use of solar-powered electrodialysis systems to remove contaminants such as nitrate, arsenic, fluoride, selenium, and uranium from brackish water. What makes this research particularly relevant is its attention to the non-steady-state operation of these systems due to natural fluctuations in solar energy availability.
As part of your doctoral journey, you will:
- Operate a novel continuous electrodialysis system under varying solar energy conditions.
- Examine the behavior and removal efficiency of key water contaminants.
- Benchmark the system against existing processes such as nanofiltration and reverse osmosis.
- Engage in national and international fieldwork to test system viability and gather real-world data.
In addition to the core scientific exploration, the project will require feasibility studies, development of energy management strategies, and deep investigations into the separation mechanisms that drive system performance. The overall goal is to not only improve technological understanding but to develop a scalable solution for global water challenges.
What the Program Offers?
This PhD program is designed to be a predominantly experimental research experience. It begins with a thorough literature review, leading to the identification of key research questions and a structured research proposal. Over the course of the program, candidates will:
- Conduct laboratory and field experiments.
- Analyze data and water samples.
- Publish results in scientific journals.
- Present research at international conferences.
- Participate in team-based career development initiatives.
- Supervise Master’s students and contribute modestly to teaching.
This is more than an academic pursuit — it is a path toward becoming an independent researcher with real-world impact.
Who Should Apply?
Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Chemical, Process, or Environmental Engineering (or a closely related field). The ideal applicant will be:
- Deeply interested in experimental research and renewable energy applications.
- Familiar with membrane filtration or electrochemical systems.
- Capable of system design and confident in laboratory troubleshooting.
- Fluent in English (German is beneficial but not mandatory).
- In possession of a valid driver’s license (fieldwork requires travel).
Common sense, curiosity, and the ability to work independently are all highly valued qualities.
Why KIT?
KIT is one of the largest and most prestigious research institutions in the world, formed from the merger of Germany’s National Research Centre of the Helmholtz Association and the former Technical University of Karlsruhe. The selected candidate will benefit from access to state-of-the-art research tools, world-class faculty, and global collaboration opportunities.
The PhD will be officially registered under the Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering at KIT.
Apply: https://www.iamt.kit.edu/downloads/2022%20IAMT%20PhD%20Solar%20ED%20FIN.pdf
Application Deadline: October 31, 2025.