Eawag, the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, is an internationally networked aquatic research institute within the ETH Domain (Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology). Eawag conducts research, education and expert consulting to achieve the dual goals of meeting direct human needs for water and maintaining the function and integrity of aquatic ecosystems.
Master Thesis on robust and low-maintenance ultra-filtration for water reuse
The Department of Process Engineering (
ENG) offers a
Water scarcity is one of the defining challenges of our time, and water reuse is an important strategy to address it. Decentralized treatment and reuse systems that enable collection of wastewater, treatment and reuse for potable or non-potable purposes are widely implement-ed in rapidly growing, water-stressed cities globally. However, these systems are often challenged by high operational and maintenance requirements and lack of skilled operators, which can compromise quality of reclaimed water. There is a need for robust, low-maintenance, and cost-effective technologies also suitable for resource-limited settings.
Ultrafiltration (UF) is a promising post-treatment technology, but its widespread implementation is limited by membrane fouling, frequent chemical cleaning and complex operation. While fouing typically reduces membrane permeability, controlled biofilm development can contribute to more stable operation and improved permeate quality.
The successful candidate has a background in environmental engineering, process engineering, chemical engineering or a related field. Basic knowledge of wastewater treatment and membrane processes, excellent data analysis skills, interest in laboratory work and microbiological methods as well as working independently round off your profile.
The goal of this thesis is to optimize operational strategies that balance long-term membrane flux with stable biofilm development. The work will be conducted on an existing pilot-scale UF system at Eawag’s experimental hall, consisting of four parallel membrane units operated under different strategies. The system is fully automated and equipped with sensors to monitor permeate flux, transmembrane pressure (TMP), and selected water quality parameters. A range of analytical methods will be used to assess the physicochemical and microbial water quality, and biofilm characteristics.
The preferred starting date is July/August 2026 with a duration of at least 4 months.
At Eawag, we have a working environment in which people with different experiences, strengths, and perspectives can fully contribute and further develop. Here, you can help us advance! We promote genuine participation, exchange, and mutual understanding. We create structures that enable the compatibility of work and other areas of life, such as care work, and continuously make efforts to reduce barriers.
Do you have specific requirements regarding the application process or the position, or do you need additional information? Talk to us about it—we will be happy to support you with possible flexible workplace, working hours, and job design solutions. For further information please visit our website about
Eawag as well as our
conditions of employment.
Applications must be submitted by 31 May 2026 and should include a motivation letter and a CV. Students in degree programs outside of Europe may be offered a position if appropriate permits for studies in Switzerland can be obtained.
For further information, please contact
Dr Shreya Trikannad.
We look forward to receiving your application. Please send it through this webpage, as any other way of applying will not be considered. A click on the button below will take you directly to the application form.
Applications from employment agencies/personnel consultants are not welcome and will not be considered.
Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology
