Studies start in January 2024
Deadline for applications: Friday, 24th of November 2023 (11:59 p.m.)
Submit Application
Information from the Department Secretary:
Contact Form - Tel.: 25002178 - Fax. 25002636
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Energy and Meteorology”
Description: Electricity production from Photovoltaics (PVs) is heavily dependent on local meteorological phenomena, especially cloud type and cloud cover. Thus, in order to further promote the penetration of small-scale roof-top PVs in cities, the effect of clouds on PVs and the prediction of electricity production from these systems needs to be understood and any problems should be resolved. The current project addresses this topic and a software will be developed based on a novel methodology (patent pending) for the prediction electricity production from PVs.
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates should possess Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from an accredited University in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or Physics. They should have experience in computer software (Python/C++/Matlab/GIS/etc.) and should be willing to engage in interdisciplinary work on energy and meteorology.
Research Advisor: Associate Professor Alexandros Charalambides, a.charalambides@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Creating Local Ecosystems of Climate Innovation"
Description: The aim of the research is to measure and analyse the effect of local traditions for the development of integrated regeneration practices for a sustainable future through innovation and entrepreneurship. Existing practices in South-East Europe (Greece, Croatia, Western Balkans, Cyprus) and the whole of the Middle East-North Africa (MENA region) will be studied and compared with more developed countries (Israel, Korea, USA, etc). Furthermore, the role of "champions" and of "regional development policies" will be an integral part of this research.
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates should possess a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degrees from an accredited University in Business and/or Management and/or Environmental Studies or in a relevant field. Should be willing to engage in interdisciplinary work on climate studies, engineering and innovation.
Research Advisor: Associate Professor Alexandros Charalambides, a.charalambides@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Hydrogenation of CO2 to Methane, Methanol and Higher Hydrocarbons using Heterogeneous Catalysts in Flow Microreactors”
Description: Methanol is considered as a starting feedstock in chemical industries and an alternative fuel to replace fossil fuels. The formation of methanol and methane for example can be very useful since these two chemicals can be potential candidates for future alternative fuels. Moreover, the methanation of CO2 can increase the capacities of global methane which can be further transformed to useful chemicals, such as methanol or can be used for electric power generation. The current industrial scale for methanol production is based on syngas technology via utilization of CO and using metal-based catalysts. Replacing of CO with CO2 is a great challenge in CO2 utilization.
To design and develop microreactors for CO2 hydrogenation for methanol and methane production and to evaluate the catalytic performance of synthesized materials and discover catalysts for improving the catalytic performance of optimized catalysts (exploitation of bimetallic and trimetallic supported nanoparticles) in terms of yield to methanol, methane, and long-term stability. Particularly this work aims to model the physico-chemical processes associated with CO2 hydrogenation using supported nanoparticles in order to optimise the production of methane/methanol using intensified microreactors. Furthermore, different microreactor designs will be evaluated in order to examine the performance of the nanoparticles in the formation of methane/methanol.
Required Qualifications: Candidates should possess an undergraduate degree and postgraduate qualification at the Master level from accredited universities in chemical engineering, or any other related field. A strong background in computer programming using MATLAB, gPROMS, COMSOL Multiphysics or similar languages is required.
Research Advisor: Achilleas Konstantinou, Assistant Professor, a.konstantinou@cut.ac.cy,
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Waste PVC Thermolysis as a Recycling Route
Description: With rapid economic growth and massive urbanization, waste-to-energy technology is recognized as a renewable source of energy and is playing an increasingly important role in municipal solid waste (MSW) management. Plastic solid waste is growing rapidly as world bank data suggests and PVC is playing a pivotal role in the accumulation of waste due to its rapid use in almost every household across the world. Pyrolysis of plastic solid waste (PSW) has gained importance due to having better advantages towards environmental pollution and reduction of carbon footprint of plastic products by minimizing the emissions of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide compared to combustion and gasification.
In this work the pyrolysis of PVC waste which will be reclaimed from various sources and conditions, shall be treated in TG & TG-IR set-up to study its mechanism and determine its fuel like gases that are to be evolved against time of reaction. Process modelling of the thermolysis process will be the key aspect of this research work in order to optimise the reactor design and conditions as well the pyrolysis oil yield.
Required Qualifications: Candidates should possess an undergraduate degree and postgraduate qualification at the Master level from accredited universities in chemical engineering, or any other related field. A strong background in computer programming using MATLAB, gPROMS, COMSOL Multiphysics or similar languages is required.
Research Advisor: Achilleas Konstantinou, Assistant Professor, a.konstantinou@cut.ac.cy,
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Computational Investigation of Microreactor Configurations for Hydrogen Production from Formic Acid/Hydrous Hydrazine Decomposition using a heterogeneous Catalysts”
Description: The need to replace fossil fuels with sustainable alternatives has been a critical issue in recent years. Hydrogen fuel is a promising alternative to fossil fuels because of its wide availability and high energy density.
For the very first time, novel microreactor configurations for the formic acid decomposition will be studied using computational modelling methodologies. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) will be utilised to develop the comprehensive heterogeneous microreactor models.
The CFD modelling study begins with the development of a packed bed microreactor to validate experimental results, subsequently followed by the theoretical development of novel microreactor configurations to perform further studies. The detailed models developed in this work will provide an interesting insight into the intensification of the formic acid decomposition reaction, using a heterogeneous catalysts.
Required Qualifications: Candidates should possess an undergraduate degree and postgraduate qualification at the Master level from accredited universities in chemical engineering, or any other related field. A good knowledge of chemical reaction engineering, chemistry, maths and physics is essential. A strong background in computer programming using STAR-CCM+, gPROMS, COMSOL Multiphysics or similar languages is required.
Research Advisor: Achilleas Konstantinou, Assistant Professor, a.konstantinou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Application of Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) for the detoxification of cyanotoxin contaminated water”
Description: The presence and subsequently the removal of micropollutants like pesticides, hormones, medical drugs and naturally occurring toxic metabolites (cyanotoxins) from water resources comprises a challenge for the water and wastewater industry. In order to remove micropollutants in trace concentrations from water resources chemical oxidation technologies such as ozonation and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are increasingly used to treat different types of source water and wastewater. The aim of this thesis is to explore the potential application of various AOPs for the removal of a group of natural toxins produced from the toxic strains of cyanobacteria, commonly known as cyanotoxins. The study aims to determine the tested AOPs efficiency and energy demands, toxicity of end product and unveil the transformation products. This will be a collaborative project with the University of Gdansk in Poland (Prof. Hanna Mazur-Marzec).
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering or Biochemistry and/or a postgraduate degree (Μaster level) from an accredited University in the field of Environmental Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Toxicology, Environmental Science or Environmental Engineering. The candidates must be fluent in English. Previous experience in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered as an advantage.
Research Advisor: Maria G. Antoniou, Assistant Professor, maria.antoniou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Detection and removal of taste and odor compounds from surface waters contaminated with cyanobacterial harmful blooms (cyano-HABs)
Description: Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are phototrophic microorganisms and represent an essential component of the food web in all aquatic ecosystems. However, certain strains of cyanobacteria have the ability to produce bioactive secondary metabolites along with taste and odor compounds that make the water unfit for use. Climate change and anthropogenic activities are major contributors towards the more frequent and prolonged appearance of cyanobacterial harmful blooms (Cyano-HABs) across the globe, adding further pressure on scarce fresh water supplies. In order to mitigate the effects of cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins measurements need to be taken at source. This study aims to apply advanced analytical techniques to identify taste and odor compounds (beyond the terpenoids geosmin and MIB) apply various physico-chemical methods for restoring cyanobacterial contaminated sites. This will be a collaborative project with the Technical University of Crete (Prof. Elia Psillakis).
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University in Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering and/or a postgraduate degree (Μaster level) from an accredited University in the field of Environmental Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Science or Environmental Engineering. The candidates must be fluent in English. Previous experience in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered as an advantage.
Research Advisor: Maria G. Antoniou, Assistant Professor, maria.antoniou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Hydrogen production processes from zero-valent metals”
Within the scope of the doctoral research, the following will be examined:
- Methods for synthesizing zero-valent metals and their application in hydrogen production and CO2 sequestration.
- Hydrogen production reactions utilizing these metals under aqueous conditions and in the presence of dissolved CO2. Techniques to increase the efficiency of the reaction (e.g., removal of the passive layer, enhancement of specific surface area, etc.).
- Use of metallic waste in hydrogen production reactions.
- Recovery of dissolved iron via electrolysis and its subsequent reuse in the reaction.
- integration of the above process with hydrogenotrophic microorganisms and other autotrophic microorganisms for the production of products (methane, organic acids, proteins, etc.).
Required Qualifications: Candidates should hold a recognized Bachelor's and Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Engineering, or a related field, and should have a satisfactory level of proficiency in the English language.
Research Advisor: Ioannis Vyrides, Assistant Professor, Ioannis.vyrides@cut.ac.cy
One (1) post in the following topic: “Modeling the rheological response of entangled polymer melts”
Description: High molecular weight polymers, i.e. those of industrial interest, tend to exhibit completely different behavior than lower molecular weight ones. This lies in the development of entanglements between the polymer chains, which complicates the modeling of their rheological behavior. These polymers are thus called entangled polymers. In the present doctoral work, we aim to perform comprehensive modeling of the rheological response of entangled polymers both from a theoretical perspective and a computational one. In particular, we aim to derive a constitutive model for entangled polymers via the use of either the Generalized Bracket or GENERIC formalisms of non-equilibrium thermodynamics (NET). The attractive advantage of employing a NET formalism is that the resulting constitutive model is, by construction, consistent with the laws of thermodynamics. The constitutive model to be proposed will provide predictions for the fraction of absorbed chains as a function of the strength of the imposed flow, as well as their rheological properties (e.g. their viscosity). Also, to parametrize and validate the new model that is to be developed, we will compare its predictions against results obtained from atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) and non-equilibrium MD (NEMD) simulations of sample entangled polymers [such as polyethylene and poly (ethylene oxide)]. There is significant previous experience in the team, both in the theoretical and computational component, with a large number of published articles in scientific journals of international scope. The successful candidate will be asked to modify and optimize pre-existing models.
During the course of this research project there will be a collaboration with Prof. Vlasis Mavrantzas (Depart. Chemical Engineering, Univ. Patras, Greece/ Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zürich, Switzerland).
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree and should possess a postgraduate degree (Μaster’s level) from an accredited University in Chemical Engineering, Theoretical/Computational Chemistry, Computational Materials Science, or Applied Computational Physics. Previous experience (e.g., during the preparation of a diploma or Master’s thesis) in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered an advantage.
Research Advisor: Pavlos S. Stephanou, Assistant Professor, pavlos.stefanou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Modeling of shear-induced migration of Red blood cells”
Description: Red blood cells (RBCs) in physiological conditions are capable of deforming and aggregating. However, both deformation and aggregation are seldom considered together when modeling the rheological behavior of blood. Recently, we proposed a series of rheological models that have shown capable of making quantitative predictions against available experimental data. However, these models should be generalized to account for RBC migration effects and RBC–plasma interactions occurring in microvessel. In the present doctoral work, the candidate should derive a refined constitutive model via the use of either the Generalized Bracket or GENERIC formalisms of non-equilibrium thermodynamics (NET). Our starting point will be the shear-induced migration model proposed by Phillips et al. The attractive advantage of employing a NET formalism is that the resulting constitutive model is, by construction, consistent with the laws of thermodynamics. The constitutive model to be proposed will provide predictions for the rheological properties of these fluids (e.g., their viscosity), which will be compared against available experimental data. This doctoral position will be funded through the research project CRaFTC.
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree and should possess a postgraduate degree (Μaster’s level) from an accredited University in Chemical Engineering, or Theoretical/Computational Chemistry, Computational Materials Science, or Applied Computational Physics. Previous experience (e.g., during the preparation of a diploma or Master's thesis) in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered as an advantage.
During the course of this research project, there will be a collaboration with Prof. Stathis Κaliviotis (Depart. Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering, Cyprus University of Technology).
Research Advisor: Pavlos S. Stephanou, Assistant Professor, pavlos.stefanou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Understanding the dynamical behavior of chains absorbed on nanoparticles under an externally applied flow field”
Description: Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs), i.e., systems composed of particles of the nanoscale size of any shape (spheres, rods, or sheets) dispersed within a polymer matrix have received cumulative attention in the last decade due to their alluring and unique properties, that render them ideal candidates for several applications. In many cases, e.g. when hydrogen bonds emerge, the polymer chains absorb on the surface of the nanoparticles. In the present doctoral work, we aim to perform comprehensive modeling of the rheological response of PNCs both from a theoretical perspective and a computational one. In particular, we aim to derive a constitutive model for PNCs via the use of either the Generalized Bracket or GENERIC formalisms of non-equilibrium thermodynamics (NET). The attractive advantage of employing a NET formalism is that the resulting constitutive model is, by construction, consistent with the laws of thermodynamics. The constitutive model to be proposed will provide predictions for the fraction of absorbed chains as a function of the strength of the imposed flow, as well and as their rheological properties (e.g. their viscosity). Also, to parametrize and validate the new model that is to be developed, we will compare its predictions against results obtained from atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) and non-equilibrium MD (NEMD) simulations of sample PNCs (such as attractive PNC melts using a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)/silica nanocomposite). There is significant previous experience in the team, both in the theoretical and computational component, with a large number of published articles in scientific journals of international scope. The successful candidate will be asked to modify and optimize pre-existing models.
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree and should possess a postgraduate degree (Μaster’s level) from an accredited University in Chemical Engineering, Theoretical/Computational Chemistry, Computational Materials Science, or Applied Computational Physics. Previous experience in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered an advantage.
Research Advisor: Pavlos S. Stephanou, Assistant Professor, pavlos.stefanou@cut.ac.cy
PhD posts - Chemical Engineering
Studies start in January 2024
Deadline for applications: Friday, 24th of November 2023 (11:59 p.m.)
Submit Application
Information from the Department Secretary:
Contact Form - Tel.: 25002178 - Fax. 25002636
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Energy and Meteorology”
Description: Electricity production from Photovoltaics (PVs) is heavily dependent on local meteorological phenomena, especially cloud type and cloud cover. Thus, in order to further promote the penetration of small-scale roof-top PVs in cities, the effect of clouds on PVs and the prediction of electricity production from these systems needs to be understood and any problems should be resolved. The current project addresses this topic and a software will be developed based on a novel methodology (patent pending) for the prediction electricity production from PVs.
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates should possess Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from an accredited University in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or Physics. They should have experience in computer software (Python/C++/Matlab/GIS/etc.) and should be willing to engage in interdisciplinary work on energy and meteorology.
Research Advisor: Associate Professor Alexandros Charalambides, a.charalambides@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Creating Local Ecosystems of Climate Innovation"
Description: The aim of the research is to measure and analyse the effect of local traditions for the development of integrated regeneration practices for a sustainable future through innovation and entrepreneurship. Existing practices in South-East Europe (Greece, Croatia, Western Balkans, Cyprus) and the whole of the Middle East-North Africa (MENA region) will be studied and compared with more developed countries (Israel, Korea, USA, etc). Furthermore, the role of "champions" and of "regional development policies" will be an integral part of this research.
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates should possess a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degrees from an accredited University in Business and/or Management and/or Environmental Studies or in a relevant field. Should be willing to engage in interdisciplinary work on climate studies, engineering and innovation.
Research Advisor: Associate Professor Alexandros Charalambides, a.charalambides@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Hydrogenation of CO2 to Methane, Methanol and Higher Hydrocarbons using Heterogeneous Catalysts in Flow Microreactors”
Description: Methanol is considered as a starting feedstock in chemical industries and an alternative fuel to replace fossil fuels. The formation of methanol and methane for example can be very useful since these two chemicals can be potential candidates for future alternative fuels. Moreover, the methanation of CO2 can increase the capacities of global methane which can be further transformed to useful chemicals, such as methanol or can be used for electric power generation. The current industrial scale for methanol production is based on syngas technology via utilization of CO and using metal-based catalysts. Replacing of CO with CO2 is a great challenge in CO2 utilization.
To design and develop microreactors for CO2 hydrogenation for methanol and methane production and to evaluate the catalytic performance of synthesized materials and discover catalysts for improving the catalytic performance of optimized catalysts (exploitation of bimetallic and trimetallic supported nanoparticles) in terms of yield to methanol, methane, and long-term stability. Particularly this work aims to model the physico-chemical processes associated with CO2 hydrogenation using supported nanoparticles in order to optimise the production of methane/methanol using intensified microreactors. Furthermore, different microreactor designs will be evaluated in order to examine the performance of the nanoparticles in the formation of methane/methanol.
Required Qualifications: Candidates should possess an undergraduate degree and postgraduate qualification at the Master level from accredited universities in chemical engineering, or any other related field. A strong background in computer programming using MATLAB, gPROMS, COMSOL Multiphysics or similar languages is required.
Research Advisor: Achilleas Konstantinou, Assistant Professor, a.konstantinou@cut.ac.cy,
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Waste PVC Thermolysis as a Recycling Route
Description: With rapid economic growth and massive urbanization, waste-to-energy technology is recognized as a renewable source of energy and is playing an increasingly important role in municipal solid waste (MSW) management. Plastic solid waste is growing rapidly as world bank data suggests and PVC is playing a pivotal role in the accumulation of waste due to its rapid use in almost every household across the world. Pyrolysis of plastic solid waste (PSW) has gained importance due to having better advantages towards environmental pollution and reduction of carbon footprint of plastic products by minimizing the emissions of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide compared to combustion and gasification.
In this work the pyrolysis of PVC waste which will be reclaimed from various sources and conditions, shall be treated in TG & TG-IR set-up to study its mechanism and determine its fuel like gases that are to be evolved against time of reaction. Process modelling of the thermolysis process will be the key aspect of this research work in order to optimise the reactor design and conditions as well the pyrolysis oil yield.
Required Qualifications: Candidates should possess an undergraduate degree and postgraduate qualification at the Master level from accredited universities in chemical engineering, or any other related field. A strong background in computer programming using MATLAB, gPROMS, COMSOL Multiphysics or similar languages is required.
Research Advisor: Achilleas Konstantinou, Assistant Professor, a.konstantinou@cut.ac.cy,
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Computational Investigation of Microreactor Configurations for Hydrogen Production from Formic Acid/Hydrous Hydrazine Decomposition using a heterogeneous Catalysts”
Description: The need to replace fossil fuels with sustainable alternatives has been a critical issue in recent years. Hydrogen fuel is a promising alternative to fossil fuels because of its wide availability and high energy density.
For the very first time, novel microreactor configurations for the formic acid decomposition will be studied using computational modelling methodologies. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) will be utilised to develop the comprehensive heterogeneous microreactor models.
The CFD modelling study begins with the development of a packed bed microreactor to validate experimental results, subsequently followed by the theoretical development of novel microreactor configurations to perform further studies. The detailed models developed in this work will provide an interesting insight into the intensification of the formic acid decomposition reaction, using a heterogeneous catalysts.
Required Qualifications: Candidates should possess an undergraduate degree and postgraduate qualification at the Master level from accredited universities in chemical engineering, or any other related field. A good knowledge of chemical reaction engineering, chemistry, maths and physics is essential. A strong background in computer programming using STAR-CCM+, gPROMS, COMSOL Multiphysics or similar languages is required.
Research Advisor: Achilleas Konstantinou, Assistant Professor, a.konstantinou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Application of Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) for the detoxification of cyanotoxin contaminated water”
Description: The presence and subsequently the removal of micropollutants like pesticides, hormones, medical drugs and naturally occurring toxic metabolites (cyanotoxins) from water resources comprises a challenge for the water and wastewater industry. In order to remove micropollutants in trace concentrations from water resources chemical oxidation technologies such as ozonation and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) are increasingly used to treat different types of source water and wastewater. The aim of this thesis is to explore the potential application of various AOPs for the removal of a group of natural toxins produced from the toxic strains of cyanobacteria, commonly known as cyanotoxins. The study aims to determine the tested AOPs efficiency and energy demands, toxicity of end product and unveil the transformation products. This will be a collaborative project with the University of Gdansk in Poland (Prof. Hanna Mazur-Marzec).
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering or Biochemistry and/or a postgraduate degree (Μaster level) from an accredited University in the field of Environmental Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Toxicology, Environmental Science or Environmental Engineering. The candidates must be fluent in English. Previous experience in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered as an advantage.
Research Advisor: Maria G. Antoniou, Assistant Professor, maria.antoniou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Detection and removal of taste and odor compounds from surface waters contaminated with cyanobacterial harmful blooms (cyano-HABs)
Description: Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are phototrophic microorganisms and represent an essential component of the food web in all aquatic ecosystems. However, certain strains of cyanobacteria have the ability to produce bioactive secondary metabolites along with taste and odor compounds that make the water unfit for use. Climate change and anthropogenic activities are major contributors towards the more frequent and prolonged appearance of cyanobacterial harmful blooms (Cyano-HABs) across the globe, adding further pressure on scarce fresh water supplies. In order to mitigate the effects of cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins measurements need to be taken at source. This study aims to apply advanced analytical techniques to identify taste and odor compounds (beyond the terpenoids geosmin and MIB) apply various physico-chemical methods for restoring cyanobacterial contaminated sites. This will be a collaborative project with the Technical University of Crete (Prof. Elia Psillakis).
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University in Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering and/or a postgraduate degree (Μaster level) from an accredited University in the field of Environmental Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Environmental Science or Environmental Engineering. The candidates must be fluent in English. Previous experience in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered as an advantage.
Research Advisor: Maria G. Antoniou, Assistant Professor, maria.antoniou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Hydrogen production processes from zero-valent metals”
Within the scope of the doctoral research, the following will be examined:
- Methods for synthesizing zero-valent metals and their application in hydrogen production and CO2 sequestration.
- Hydrogen production reactions utilizing these metals under aqueous conditions and in the presence of dissolved CO2. Techniques to increase the efficiency of the reaction (e.g., removal of the passive layer, enhancement of specific surface area, etc.).
- Use of metallic waste in hydrogen production reactions.
- Recovery of dissolved iron via electrolysis and its subsequent reuse in the reaction.
- integration of the above process with hydrogenotrophic microorganisms and other autotrophic microorganisms for the production of products (methane, organic acids, proteins, etc.).
Required Qualifications: Candidates should hold a recognized Bachelor's and Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Engineering, or a related field, and should have a satisfactory level of proficiency in the English language.
Research Advisor: Ioannis Vyrides, Assistant Professor, Ioannis.vyrides@cut.ac.cy
One (1) post in the following topic: “Modeling the rheological response of entangled polymer melts”
Description: High molecular weight polymers, i.e. those of industrial interest, tend to exhibit completely different behavior than lower molecular weight ones. This lies in the development of entanglements between the polymer chains, which complicates the modeling of their rheological behavior. These polymers are thus called entangled polymers. In the present doctoral work, we aim to perform comprehensive modeling of the rheological response of entangled polymers both from a theoretical perspective and a computational one. In particular, we aim to derive a constitutive model for entangled polymers via the use of either the Generalized Bracket or GENERIC formalisms of non-equilibrium thermodynamics (NET). The attractive advantage of employing a NET formalism is that the resulting constitutive model is, by construction, consistent with the laws of thermodynamics. The constitutive model to be proposed will provide predictions for the fraction of absorbed chains as a function of the strength of the imposed flow, as well as their rheological properties (e.g. their viscosity). Also, to parametrize and validate the new model that is to be developed, we will compare its predictions against results obtained from atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) and non-equilibrium MD (NEMD) simulations of sample entangled polymers [such as polyethylene and poly (ethylene oxide)]. There is significant previous experience in the team, both in the theoretical and computational component, with a large number of published articles in scientific journals of international scope. The successful candidate will be asked to modify and optimize pre-existing models.
During the course of this research project there will be a collaboration with Prof. Vlasis Mavrantzas (Depart. Chemical Engineering, Univ. Patras, Greece/ Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zürich, Switzerland).
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree and should possess a postgraduate degree (Μaster’s level) from an accredited University in Chemical Engineering, Theoretical/Computational Chemistry, Computational Materials Science, or Applied Computational Physics. Previous experience (e.g., during the preparation of a diploma or Master’s thesis) in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered an advantage.
Research Advisor: Pavlos S. Stephanou, Assistant Professor, pavlos.stefanou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Modeling of shear-induced migration of Red blood cells”
Description: Red blood cells (RBCs) in physiological conditions are capable of deforming and aggregating. However, both deformation and aggregation are seldom considered together when modeling the rheological behavior of blood. Recently, we proposed a series of rheological models that have shown capable of making quantitative predictions against available experimental data. However, these models should be generalized to account for RBC migration effects and RBC–plasma interactions occurring in microvessel. In the present doctoral work, the candidate should derive a refined constitutive model via the use of either the Generalized Bracket or GENERIC formalisms of non-equilibrium thermodynamics (NET). Our starting point will be the shear-induced migration model proposed by Phillips et al. The attractive advantage of employing a NET formalism is that the resulting constitutive model is, by construction, consistent with the laws of thermodynamics. The constitutive model to be proposed will provide predictions for the rheological properties of these fluids (e.g., their viscosity), which will be compared against available experimental data. This doctoral position will be funded through the research project CRaFTC.
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree and should possess a postgraduate degree (Μaster’s level) from an accredited University in Chemical Engineering, or Theoretical/Computational Chemistry, Computational Materials Science, or Applied Computational Physics. Previous experience (e.g., during the preparation of a diploma or Master's thesis) in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered as an advantage.
During the course of this research project, there will be a collaboration with Prof. Stathis Κaliviotis (Depart. Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science and Engineering, Cyprus University of Technology).
Research Advisor: Pavlos S. Stephanou, Assistant Professor, pavlos.stefanou@cut.ac.cy
- One (1) post in the following topic: “Understanding the dynamical behavior of chains absorbed on nanoparticles under an externally applied flow field”
Description: Polymer nanocomposites (PNCs), i.e., systems composed of particles of the nanoscale size of any shape (spheres, rods, or sheets) dispersed within a polymer matrix have received cumulative attention in the last decade due to their alluring and unique properties, that render them ideal candidates for several applications. In many cases, e.g. when hydrogen bonds emerge, the polymer chains absorb on the surface of the nanoparticles. In the present doctoral work, we aim to perform comprehensive modeling of the rheological response of PNCs both from a theoretical perspective and a computational one. In particular, we aim to derive a constitutive model for PNCs via the use of either the Generalized Bracket or GENERIC formalisms of non-equilibrium thermodynamics (NET). The attractive advantage of employing a NET formalism is that the resulting constitutive model is, by construction, consistent with the laws of thermodynamics. The constitutive model to be proposed will provide predictions for the fraction of absorbed chains as a function of the strength of the imposed flow, as well and as their rheological properties (e.g. their viscosity). Also, to parametrize and validate the new model that is to be developed, we will compare its predictions against results obtained from atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) and non-equilibrium MD (NEMD) simulations of sample PNCs (such as attractive PNC melts using a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)/silica nanocomposite). There is significant previous experience in the team, both in the theoretical and computational component, with a large number of published articles in scientific journals of international scope. The successful candidate will be asked to modify and optimize pre-existing models.
Required Qualifications: Successful candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree and should possess a postgraduate degree (Μaster’s level) from an accredited University in Chemical Engineering, Theoretical/Computational Chemistry, Computational Materials Science, or Applied Computational Physics. Previous experience in the above-mentioned research topic will be considered an advantage.
Research Advisor: Pavlos S. Stephanou, Assistant Professor, pavlos.stefanou@cut.ac.cy
