Postdoc-position | Holistic biomass processing using alternative solvents

Description of project:

This postdoctoral project aims to develop an integrated, sustainable approach to biomass valorization by leveraging alternative solvent systems and catalytic processes. The research focuses on three interconnected objectives:

- Selective Extraction of Biomass Using Alternative Solvents

Develop and optimize protocols for extracting valuable fine chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass using green solvents such as supercritical CO₂, ionic liquids, and subcritical water. The goal is to recover bioactive compounds with potential applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals.

- Delignification and Conversion to Fermentable Acidic Building Blocks

Investigate novel methods for extracting and fractionating lignin to isolate functionalized aromatic acids and other depolymerization products. These molecules will serve as precursors for microbial fermentation to produce sustainable chemicals and biofuels.

- Functionalization of Biomass Residue for Catalytic CO₂ Conversion

Modify the porous residual biomass framework post-extraction to incorporate heterogeneous catalysts, transforming it into an active support for continuous CO₂ conversion. The aim is to create integrated systems for producing bulk chemicals such as methanol or formic acid, leveraging the structural and chemical properties of the biomass-derived support.

Background:

The project aligns with the goals of Program 3: Biocatalytic Processes for Sustainable Synthesis, focusing on innovative strategies for biomass utilization and CO₂ conversion. By integrating green chemistry principles and circular economy concepts, this research seeks to minimize waste and environmental impact while maximizing the value derived from biomass resources.

Research Objectives:

- Develop and optimize green solvent-based extraction methods for biomass.

- Characterize and fractionate lignin into fermentable building blocks.

- Engineer biomass-derived materials as catalysts for CO₂ conversion.

- Integrate the above processes into a cohesive, sustainable biomass valorization pathway

Methods:

- Solvent extraction techniques (supercritical CO₂, ionic liquids, subcritical water).

- Catalyst synthesis and characterization.

- Continuous-flow chemistry and reaction engineering

- Analytical tools: GC-MS, HPLC, NMR, BET, FTIR.

Where to apply:

https://www.circularbioengineering.at/