Lead Researcher - Desalination

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Lead - Desalination R&D to join our R&D team. The ideal candidate will possess an in-depth understanding of the design and operation of desalination plants using Reverse Osmosis (RO) membranes. The candidate should be well-versed in recent advancements in desalination technologies, including Forward Osmosis (FO), Closed Circuit Reverse Osmosis (CCRO), hybrid systems, and batch RO processes. A comprehensive understanding of the latest developments and improvements in membrane science is essential. The role requires a research-oriented mindset, capable of integrating emerging global innovations into in-house development projects. The candidate will contribute to cutting-edge R&D efforts to advance desalination technologies and processes, ensuring sustainability and efficiency in water treatment solutions.

Responsibilities

1. Applied Research :
   • Undertake applied research in desalination to enhance specific energy consumption, overall process efficiency, and reduce capital expenditure (CAPEX).
   • Focus on advancing membrane technologies and exploring innovative desalination methods.
     1. Simulation and Design :
        • Utilize advanced simulation and projection tools to design and optimize RO plants.
        • Conduct modeling to predict system performance under various operational scenarios.
          1. Interdisciplinary Collaboration :
             • Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams across engineering, chemistry, and material science disciplines.
             • Facilitate the integration of diverse expertise to drive innovation and problem-solving.
               1. Prototype Development and Scaling :
                  • Lead the development of prototypes and laboratory test beds.
                  • Oversee the scale-up of laboratory prototypes to pilot-scale operations and field applications.
                    1. Industry and Academic Engagement :
                       • Collaborate with governmental agencies, start-ups, and research institutions to establish desalination standards and best practices.
                       • Represent the organization in industry forums, technical committees, and collaborative research projects.
                         1. Industry Awareness :
                            • Stay updated on industry trends, codes, regulations, and advancements in desalination technologies.
                              1. Mentorship and Team Development :
                                 • Mentor and guide young researchers to develop their expertise in membranes, desalination processes, and related technologies.
                                 • Foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation within the team.
                                   1. Lab-to-Field Integration :
                                      • Bridge the gap between laboratory and pilot results and real-field applications to ensure scalability and performance consistency.
                                        1. Techno-Economic Analysis :
                                           • Conduct techno-economic analyses and technology benchmarking to evaluate the feasibility and competitiveness of desalination solutions.
                                             1. Water Chemistry and Pre-Treatment :
                                                • Demonstrate a thorough understanding of water chemistry, pre-treatment processes, and various pre-treatment modes critical for effective desalination system design.
                                             2. Education : M. Tech / M. E in Chemical Engineering or Environmental Engineering. Candidates with PhD shall be given preference.
                                             3. Experience: Min. 10 years of experience in Desalination Industry
                                             4. Expectations: Fluent communication skills, excellent presentation skills, deep expertise in desal system design, operation and research, good leadership skills and analytical skills
                                             5. Publication: Candidate must have at least 5 publications in peer reviewed journals with high IFs. Patents as a lead or co-inventor or at least one chapter in a book as a lead or co-author will be considered as additional indicators
                                             6. Good to have: Programming skills, process monitoring skills, abilities to manage a team and exposure to trainings like fast-works, lean six-sigma, triz etc.
                                             7. Posting: Water Technology Center, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu