Position:
Researcher (V4)
Topic:
Advanced identification and mitigation of methane from sewer network and wastewater treatment plants
Project description:
Methane leaks in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and in the sewer network contribute to a large extent to CH4 emissions from agglomerations, but are not currently systematically mapped. At the same time, methane is about 30 times more effective as a greenhouse gas than CO2, its effect is manifested in a shorter period of time, and large water management companies in particular are now realistically motivated to map and reduce their carbon footprint.
The goal of the project is the mitigation of methane emissions from wastewater management processes, including sewage networks and WWTPs, which is an inevitable step towards reducing GHG emissions and making more efficient use of emitted methane. With the highly sensitive and methane-specific LiDAR, we will identify the main sources of leaks in the sewage network as well as the sludge and gas management of the WWTP. We will design a smart unit (mainly developed by project partner) to prevent the formation of methane already in the sewage network using aeration. We will create an advanced mathematical model to eliminate methane emissions from the main line of wastewater treatment. We will oxidize the methane in the waste gases from digested sludge storage in an optimized biofilter and partially convert it into biomass.
The student will be supervised by senior staff of the Department of Water Technology and Environmental Engineering with expertise in biological treatment processes, including sludge management. The Prague water utility company plays a key role in the development and testing of processes in real conditions in the project.
Project ID:
SQ01020023 METAMONIT; Advanced identification and mitigation of methane from sewer network and wastewater treatment plants
Provider:
TAČR – Prostředí pro život
Project duration:
3 years
Financial conditions:
The position financed by the project covers a monthly gross salary of 32,800 CZK (sum of the tariff and project bonuses) and the project lasts until the end of December 2027. After this date, we are trying to secure further funding.
In case of admission to the doctoral program, the student will also receive a monthly scholarship of at least 17,500 CZK. The scholarship may be further increased based on scientific results. The scholarship will be paid for the period of 48 months.
Requirements:
- Degree Ing. or Mgr. in Chemical/Environmental Engineering. Candidates who are likely to obtain their degree no later than June 2025 can also apply.
- Demonstrable knowledge and interest in biological processes and biotechnology.
- Experience with mathematical modeling of biological processes is an advantage
- Independence, motivation, proactivity, openness to communication and cooperation in a multidisciplinary team
- Ability to work scientifically combined with practicality
- Experience with laboratory work demonstrated by completing laboratory courses, internships or other previous work.
- Excellent level of spoken and written English