PhD Position in Chemical and Mechanical Engineering: Scale-up of Bioreactors
Advance CFD simulations and experimental techniques for scaling up industrial bioreactors in a Franco-German doctoral project.
Best for:Best for master's graduates in fluid mechanics or chemical engineering with strong computational fluid dynamics and experimental skills.
Overview
This PhD position is hosted by IFP Energies nouvelles (IFPEN) in Lyon, France, in collaboration with the Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH) as part of a joint research project. The successful candidate will focus on modelling gas-liquid flows in industrial bioreactors using advanced experimental methods and numerical approaches such as Eulerian modelling and the Lattice-Boltzmann Method. The work aims to improve CFD simulation tools to assist in the reliable scale-up of bioreactor systems. The appointee will engage in rigorous multi-phase flow research, including a four-month research stay at TUHH in Germany.
What you'll do
- Characterize gas-phase hydrodynamics in bioreactors across multiple scales ranging from laboratory to pilot sizes
- Perform computational fluid dynamics simulations of gas-liquid flows utilising the Eulerian two-fluid model approach
- Collaborate with TUHH to compare Eulerian simulation results with Lattice-Boltzmann Method models incorporating Lagrangian bubble tracking
- Refine and improve closure laws for the two-fluid model based on novel experimental data and advanced numerical simulations
- Participate in a four-month international research stay at the Hamburg University of Technology in Germany
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at scientific conferences
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in fluid mechanics, chemical engineering, applied mathematics, or numerical simulation
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; CEFR level B2 or good working proficiency
Instruction: English
- Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of multiphase flows
- Demonstrated proficiency and strong skills in computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
- Hands-on familiarity with commercial or open-source CFD software, preferably Ansys Fluent
- Practical experimentation skills including fluid analysis and flow characterization
- Demonstrated ability to work rigorously, autonomously, and solve complex problems
- Hold or be about to complete a recognized Master's degree in a relevant discipline
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-30 (Europe/Paris)
Interested applicants should prepare a detailed curriculum vitae and a cover letter outlining their research background and motivation. Applications must be submitted via email directly to the designated IFPEN supervisor before the stated deadline.
- CV
- Cover letter
- MSc transcripts
Contact
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