Loughborough University, United Kingdom
Department of Chemical Engineering

Strategic Feedback Control of Pharmaceutical Crystallization Processes

Postdoctoral Research Associate [2 Years]
GBP24,161 per annum

Applications are invited to work on an Engineering and Physical Sciences 
Research Council (EPSRC) funded research project in the area of Modelling 
and Control of Pharmaceutical Crystallization Processes. The project is in 
close collaboration with AstraZeneca, an international pharmaceutical 
company with state-of-the-art R&D department in Loughborough, UK. This post 
will be based in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Loughborough 
University, but part of the experimental evaluation will be performed at the 
company.
The aim of the project is to develop a systematic and comprehensive 
framework for controlling pharmaceutical crystal formation that incorporates 
first-principles simulation models, efficient dynamic optimization and model 
based control algorithms, as well as experimentation using modern process 
analytical technology. The developed approach will be useful in treating 
several industrially important key problems in crystallization, such as 
controlling the formation of desired polymorphs and/or achieving consistent 
product quality despite of uncertainties due to scale-up.
Applicants should have experience in one or more of the following topics:
(i)  Population Balance Modelling of Crystallization Processes
(ii) Model based control, optimization and parameter estimation
(iii) Experience in programming with Matlab, Labview, C
(iv) Experimental application of process analytical  technology (e.g. FBRM, 
ATR-UV/VIS, image analysis, chemometrics, etc.) for the study of 
crystallization processes

Applicants should also have  a PhD in engineering, mathematics or the 
physical sciences. Good communication skills and the ability to work as part 
of a team are essential.  A good publication record in a related area would 
be an advantage. The position is available from January 2007 or as soon as 
possible thereafter.

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Dr ZK Nagy 
(e:mail:[log in to unmask]), tel: +44(0)1509 222516

Further details and an application form can be obtained from Yasmin Kosar, 
email: [log in to unmask], Department of Chemical Engineering, Loughborough 
University, Loughborough, LE11 3TU, UK, tel: 01509 222533, quoting reference 
CG/12380.

Alternatively application forms can be downloaded at 
www.lboro.ac.uk/admin/personnel/appform.html. Closing date for receipt of 
applications is 30th November 2006.  Send curriculum vitae and sample 
publications. Curriculum vitae will only be accepted if accompanied by a 
completed University application form.