Post-doc in material processing for separation processes (100%)

The University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Valais (HES-SO Valais-Wallis) has over 2,800 students. Through research and innovation, it contributes to economic and social development and the creation of jobs. The new Energypolis campus, home to the School of Engineering, EPFL and modern start-ups, is an innovative ecosystem for education and research. Why not come and join us?

The School of Engineering at the Energypolis campus invites applications for the following position within the Institute of Systems Engineering:

Post-doc in material processing for separation processes (100%)

Position description

• Join the NCCR SEPARATIONS, a large multidisciplinary research consortium led by EPFL, dedicated to developing next-generation separation processes.

• Develop membrane-based processes for high-temperature ammonia separation, including the design of a high-pressure membrane module.

• Investigate high-temperature, high-pressure membrane-based ammonia separation.

• Develop processes for selective metal recovery from complex liquid waste streams, with a particular focus on lithium and cobalt recovery from battery waste.

• Design, characterise and test porous organised adsorbent materials for selective metal extraction under realistic and challenging conditions (variable pH, high acidity, multicomponent leachates).

• Design, characterise and test porous organised adsorbent materials for direct air capture applications.

• Define technical specifications for research skids (adsorbent units, membrane units and hybrid platforms) and contribute to their commissioning

• Operate pilot-scale units, collect and analyse data, and extract relevant KPIs (efficiency, purity, productivity, stability).

• Investigate material degradation mechanisms and contribute to the development of regeneration protocols.

• Produce scientific outputs, including reports, conference papers and peer-reviewed publications.

Selection criteria

• PhD in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering or a related field.

• Experience in sorbent structuring: extrusion, tableting, pelletising, additive manufacturing or similar shaping processes.

• Solid knowledge of slurry/feedstock formulation and porous solids preparation.

• Experience operating filtration, membrane or adsorption systems, including data acquisition and processing.

• Ability to perform and interpret physicochemical analyses, such as SEM, Raman, XPS, FTIR, DLS, XRD, GC/MS, BET and surface tension

• Experience with corrosive media, high temperature/pressure setups, or pilot scale equipment is an asset.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment, with strong organisational skills.

• Strong communication and networking skills, with the ability to contribute to scientific and industrial partnerships.

• Language requirements: English; French is an asset.

Employment 100%

Place of work Sion, Switzerland

Starting date Immediately or upon agreement

For further information, please contact Mathieu Soutrenon, Associate Professor UAS (mathieu.soutrenon(a)hevs.ch).

Please submit your complete application documents (CV, motivation letter, diplomas and certificates) by 6 May 2026 by clicking on the Apply button. Only online applications will be considered.