Graduate Opportunity: MSc in Chemical Engineering – Hollow Fiber Membrane Discovery
Location: McMaster University, Canada
Supervisor: Prof. Charles-François de Lannoy
Start Date: As early as September 2025, no later than January 2026
Deadline: Applications open until filled
The de Lannoy Lab at McMaster University is seeking a curious, innovative, and driven student to join a groundbreaking research project as part of a thesis-based MSc in Chemical Engineering.
About the Project
Membrane technology plays a crucial role in industries like water treatment, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. Hollow fiber membranes (HFMs) are especially valued for their compact and efficient design. Currently, all HFMs are manufactured using one method—non-solvent induced phase separation (NIPS). But our lab has discovered a novel method that spontaneously forms HFMs, opening new possibilities for industrial application.
As the MSc student, you will:
- Explore the design parameters influencing spontaneous HFM formation
- Investigate multiple polymers for compatibility with the new method
- Characterize and benchmark these membranes against conventional HFMs
Why Join Us?
- Be a co-inventor on new intellectual property
- Work in a diverse, inclusive, and supportive research environment
- Receive a graduate stipend above the university minimum
- Engage in cutting-edge materials research with real-world applications
Ideal Background
Applicants should have completed a B.Eng., B.Sc., or equivalent in:
- Chemical Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Chemistry or Physics (with relevance to polymer or membrane science)
Strong candidates may have interest or experience in:
- Polymer science or processing
- Membrane technologies
- Device design and prototyping
- Experimental design and statistics
Application Instructions
To apply, email Prof. Charles de Lannoy at delannoy@mcmaster.ca with the subject line: “MSc in Hollow Fiber Discovery” (applications without this subject line will not be considered).
Include the following:
- Your updated CV (Filename format: Last-name, First-name, CV 2025)
- Names and contact details of two professional references
We strongly encourage applications from women, BIPOC candidates, and other underrepresented groups in engineering.
