Biomass Valorization
Description
A fully funded PhD position is available in the research group of Professor Marie-Josée Dumont, Canada Research Chair in Biomass Valorization, Department of Chemical Engineering, at Université Laval.
Vision and Context
Biorefineries—modeled after fossil refineries—are poised to become pillars of a sustainable economy, converting renewable biomass into high-value chemicals and materials. Yet, despite significant advances, major bottlenecks remain: limited catalyst selectivity, inefficient batch processing, and fragmented reaction pathways continue to restrict productivity and scalability.
Moreover, the transformation of biomass-derived intermediates into advanced materials capable of rivaling—or surpassing—the performance of fossil-based counterparts remains underdeveloped. Bridging this gap is essential for building a competitive and resilient bioeconomy.
The project will focus on the catalytic conversion of biomass wastes into biobased platform chemicals and their transformation into sustainable bio-based materials, supported by advanced process intensification strategies.
The successful candidate will join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment working at the interface of catalytic chemistry, process engineering, materials science, and sustainable process development.
The candidate will:
- Design and conduct experimental research
- Analyze and interpret data
- Contribute to peer-reviewed publications and/or patent filings, and present results at conferences
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary academic and/or industrial partners
Anticipated start date: May 4th, 2026 (flexible).
Research Field
- Chemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Material Science
Research Supervisor
Marie-Josée Dumont
Research Environment
Chemical Engineering Department of Université Laval
Web Site
Financial Aid Available by Program of Study
Doctorate in Chemical Engineering
Program descriptionFinancial Aid Available*
Financial Aid Related to Research Project
$25000 per year for 4 years.
The position includes competitive financial support in accordance with Université Laval guidelines, with opportunities to apply for prestigious scholarships (e.g., NSERC, FRQNT).
Program-Specific Financial Aid
Graduate Studies Awards
| Milestone |
Amount |
Progression scholarship 1 - 7
|
7 x $1,600 |
| Progression scholarship 8 |
$800 |
| Total |
$12,000 |
Université Laval: Student Financial Aid
Supplemental Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship Program: Entitles international students to pay Canadian student tuition fees, for overall savings of around $45,000.
* Amounts shown represent maximum financial aid available. Certain conditions apply. Subject to change without prior notice. For further information, contact sponsoring organizations directly.
Desired Profile
- Chemical Engineering
Requirements and Conditions
- MSc degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, bioprocess engineering, or a related field
- Strong academic record
- Demonstrated research experience
- Ability to communicate effectively (oral and written) in English or French
Required Documentation
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitæ
- Student transcript
Interested candidates should send:
- A cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts
- Contact information for two references
Applications should be sent to: marie-josee.dumont@gch.ulaval.ca
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Application Deadline
March 25, 2026
Find Out More
Marie-Josée Dumont
Professeure titulaire
Département de génie chimique
marie-josee.dumont@gch.ulaval.ca