Computational Scientist

Rivan Industries is a pioneering synthetic fuel company focused on decarbonizing heavy industry. Our mission is to make synthetic fuel more affordable than fossil fuels and to sustain life on earth by keeping CO2 locked underground. We design and manufacture modular synthetic fuel plants that include a DAC system, an Alkaline Electrolyser, and a Sabatier Reactor, integrating seamlessly with off-grid DC solar and the European gas-grid.

The role: As a Computational Scientist at Rivan Industries, you will be responsible for developing and refining process models for our lime-based Direct Air Capture (DAC) process. This includes integrating thermodynamics, kinetics, and transport phenomena into your models. You will perform first-principles heat and mass transfer calculations, dynamic process simulations, and optimization studies. Additionally, you will work cross-functionally with experimental and design teams to validate models against empirical data, refine process understanding, and inform plant operation and scale-up. You will also build and maintain modular simulation tools such as MATLAB, Aspen Plus, COMSOL, or custom Python models to support techno-economic and performance assessments.

Job requirements: The ideal candidate will have 3–7 years of experience in process modelling, computational science, or chemical/process engineering R&D. A Bachelor’s/Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Systems Engineering or a related field is required; a PhD is advantageous. You should have proven experience with MATLAB, Aspen Plus/HYSYS, COMSOL, ANSYS Fluent, or Python. A strong background in heat and mass transfer, reaction engineering, and first-principles modelling is essential. Experience in model validation with lab or pilot data, understanding of solid–gas systems (calcination, hydration, carbonation), and past demonstration of system optimization are preferred.

Benefits: The position offers a competitive salary of £70-80k, depending on experience, with significant share options as part of the early team. Extensive relocation support is provided, including an additional £6000 per year to live close to our HQ in Bermondsey, South-East London.