PhD course: Biorefinery Pilot Research, 5 ECTS

The course introduces PhD students to pilot-scale biorefinery research facilities in Northern Sweden and how they differ from laboratory work. It combines theory and hands-on experience to show how research is conducted at larger scales.

At the end of the course, the students are expected to:

• be aware of the availability of pilot-scale biorefinery facilities and equipment in Northern Sweden (Piteå to Örnsköldsvik) and have an overall understanding of the technologies represented
• be aware of the availability of specific equipment relevant to one’s own research work and what support one can get from technical staff regarding planning and advice for an appropriate experimental setup and help with practical experimental work.
• be able to operate single equipment with minor supervision
• have developed an understanding of the specific challenges encountered when performing pilot-scale research
• critically analyze the strengths and weaknesses of pilot plants from different perspectives
• be able to present a case describing the development process when she/he takes her/his own research to a larger scale

For more information on the course please read the course syllabus.

Pace is 50%.

This course is part of the Bio4Energy graduate school

Course contents: 

i) On-site at pilot and demonstration facilities: Demonstrations, lectures and interactive seminars

ii) Biorefinery pilot and demonstration R&D: Concepts of technical innovation system, knowledge and skills of importance issues in pilot and demonstration R&D.

 iii) Technology upscaling within your own research field: Group/individual work to describe, compare, and discuss the current state-of-the-art (approaches, bottlenecks, actor constellations, etc.). Written report and examination seminar.

Course fee and accommodation:

The course fee is SEK 6,000 for academic participants not member of Bio4Energy and SEK 12,000 for participants from industry. The course fee includes all course materials, social events, amenities, meals and accommodation.