Geert-Jan Witkamp

Prof. Geert-Jan Witkamp is a Full Professor at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), affiliated with the Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division and the Environmental Science and Engineering department. He previously led a research group at Delft University of Technology's Faculty of Applied Sciences in the Biotechnology department.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Applied Sciences, Delft University of Technology (1989)
  • M.Sc., Chemistry, Leiden University (1985)
  • B.Sc., Chemistry & Physics, Leiden University (1982)

His research focuses on developing atom- and energy-efficient technologies for material recovery (water, salts, metals) from diverse sources through translational research. Key concepts include the Water Refinery, Eutectic Freeze Crystallization, Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES), and supercritical CO2-based processes.

His publications (2000-2019) span topics like phosphate adsorption, zero liquid discharge, acoustic cavitation, NADES in cellular metabolism, and supercritical CO2 extraction. Trends show a strong emphasis on water treatment, resource recovery, and green solvent technologies.

His work intersects Chemical and Biological Engineering, Earth Science and Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering, with applications in hydrometallurgy, ionic liquids, and supercritical fluids. He leads a research team at KAUST, advancing sustainable solutions for industrial and environmental challenges.