Openings

The CBP group seeks qualified applications for PhD and Master (research-based) positions under the supervision of Dr. Ergys Pahija, who is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering at the University of Sherbrooke. Ergys has over 10 years of research experience in chemical and bioprocesses, including thermo- and electro-catalytic processes for carbon utilization, cellular population dynamics, and monitoring of bioprocesses. His research has been published in top-tier journals in bio- and chemical engineering, environmental and energy domains.

About the Chemical and Biotechnological Department at the University of Sherbrooke: 

The University of Sherbrooke is home to more than 32,000 students. Currently, more than 3500 foreign students from 98 countries worldwide attend the University. The University of Sherbrooke and its Department of Chemical and Biotechnological Engineering offer a dynamic and supportive environment for developing advanced research skills. Known for its strong emphasis on collaboration, the department provides exceptional opportunities for students to work alongside industries and research institutions. 

Current positions:

• 2026 PhD in Carbon Utilization

• 2026 MSc/PhD in Cell Cultures Optimization (coming soon)

Closed positions:

• 2025 MSc or PhD in Artificial Intelligence Driven Tools for Cell Cultures Optimization

• 2024 PhD in Bio-Hydrogen Production

• 2025  PhD in Carbon Utilization to Decarbonize the Maritime Sector 

If you are applying for any of the posted positions, please ensure to include the full required list of materials (including transcripts) in your application. Applications without a full package will not be considered. Thank you for your cooperation!  

ONLY shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next phases in the interview process.

2026  PhD in Carbon Utilization

Position description:

The candidate will conduct research on the modelling and optimization of an intensified catalytic process for carbon utilization in applications related to decarbonizing the maritime sector. The candidate will analyze experimental data and develop machine-learning predictions and hybrid models. The work will also involve evaluating the techno-economics and environmental impact of the technology in collaboration with partner institutions.

Support and timelines:

• One PhD position with enrollment as soon as possible (urgent). 

• This PhD position is fully funded.

Required Qualifications:

• A strong background in data science, modelling and optimization in chemical engineering, and process engineering

• Candidates should have a keen interest and motivation to research carbon utilization technologies.

• Aspen Plus experience and prior programming skills are required (Python* and/or MATLAB). *preferred

• Experience in modelling of Carbon Utilization Technologies and Machine Learning algorithms is considered a plus and will be prioritized

Application procedures:

Interested applicants should send a single email with the subject line "PhD in Carbon Utilization" to my University of Sherbrooke email: ergys.pahija@usherbrooke.ca

Step 1: All applicants must review the university's admission requirements. Please indicate in the first line of your email that “I checked the university admissions and meet (or will meet) the requirements.” 

Step 2: In the email, please attach the following documents in a single PDF file:

1)     A one-page cover letter indicating your relevant background, interests and motivations. 

2)     A one-page research statement.

3)     Up-to-date transcripts (including Bachelor's and Master's transcripts).

4)     A current CV.

5)     A representative publication, if there is any.

Important: Please ensure the correct email subject and complete application package. An email filtering scheme is set and thus incorrect or incomplete applications will not be received.

No deadline applies. 

Review of the applications will start immediately and on a rolling basis. 

Closed positions:

2025  PhD in Carbon Utilization to Decarbonize the Maritime Sector (filled)

Position description:

Candidates will conduct research on modelling and optimization of an intensified catalytic process, analyze experimental data, develop machine learning prediction and evaluate the techno-economics and environmental impact of the technology. 

Support and timelines:

• One PhD position with enrollment in Summer 2025 (or earlier if feasible). 

• This PhD position is fully funded.

Required Qualifications:

• A strong background in data science, modelling and optimization in chemical engineering, and process engineering

• Candidates should have a keen interest and motivation to research carbon utilization technologies.

• Aspen Plus experience and prior programming skills are required (Python* and/or MATLAB). *preferred

Application procedures:

Interested applicants should send a single email with the subject line "PhD in Carbon Utilization to Decarbonize the Maritime Sector" to my University of Sherbrooke email: ergys.pahija@usherbrooke.ca

Step 1: All applicants must review the admission requirements by the university. Please indicate in the first line of your email that “I checked the university admissions and meet (or will meet) the requirements.” 

Step 2: In the email, please attach the following documents in .pdf:

1)     A one-page cover letter indicating your relevant background, interests and motivations. 

2)     A one-page research statement.

3)     Up-to-date transcripts (including Bachelor's and Master's transcripts).

4)     A current CV.

5)     A representative publication if there is any.

Important: Please ensure the correct email subject and complete application package. An email filtering scheme is set and thus incorrect or incomplete applications will not be received.

Deadline: November 30th, 2024 but Review of the applications will start immediately and on a rolling basis. Applications after the deadline may also be reviewed.