The Faculty of Applied Engineering is looking for a motivated full-time (100%) PhD student in the field of electrocatalysis to strengthen their research team ELCAT (Applied Electrochemistry & Catalysis). The research group works around three themes: electrocatalysis, electrosynthesis and electrochemical reactor technology.

The core research goal within ELCAT lies in the development of state-of-the art electrocatalysts for electrochemical processes in industry, in particular for processes related to current energy and climate issues such as CO₂ reduction and production of green H₂. The aim is to improve the controllability, flexibility and energy efficiency of reactions through electrocatalyst and reactor design.

For more information about current projects, current doctoral projects and publications, please take a look at www.elcat.be

Job description

• You prepare a doctoral thesis in the field of electrocatalysis and in this context you compete for externally funded research grants. Electrochemistry is gaining more and more attention as a potential alternative to several traditional industrial processes because of its positive impact on global greenhouse gas emissions (mainly CO₂) and its ability to generate periodic renewable energy. The aim of this project is to expand the existing knowledge on H₂ electrolysis. This mainly in the field of reactor design and upscaling with the aim to increase the level of technology readiness.
• You publish scientific articles and/or patents related to your specific field of research.
• As a PhD student of ELCAT you also support a part of the general research and teaching tasks to support the good day-to-day functioning of the research group and the Faculty of Applied Engineering.
• You are also responsible for safety in the research labs, in particular with regard to chemicals.

Profile and requirements

• You hold a Master’s degree in industrial science/applied engineering: chemistry (industrial engineer), Master’s degree in engineering: chemistry or materials science (civil engineering), Master in chemistry or equivalent through experience.
• You can present good study results.
• Final year students can also apply.
• Your academic qualities comply with the requirements stipulated in the university’s policy.
• You are communicative, conscientious, customer-friendly, honest, creative, quality-oriented and collaborative.
• You are enthusiast.
• You can communicate well, both in speaking and in writing.
• You are strong in planning and organizing, you can work independently.
• You don’t forget about safety and you have some good technical skills.

We offer

• a doctoral scholarship for a period of 1 year, renewable after positive evaluation;

• the starting date can be adapted to the selected candidate’s availability;

• a gross monthly grant ranging from DP&O vult aan;
• a dynamic and stimulating work environment.

How to apply?

• Applications may only be submitted online <link website- to be completed by the HR department> until the closing date November 30^th, 2020
• A pre-selection takes place on the basis of the submitted applications; the further selection procedure is function-oriented and is determined by the selection committee.
• This is followed by an interview with the candidates who have been retained by the selection committee for the continuation of the selection.
• More information about the application form can be obtained from Myra De Munck (Tel. +32 (0)3 265 32 24).
• For questions about the profile and the description of duties, please contact doctor Nick Daems (nick.daems@uantwerpen.be), doctor Jonas Hereijgers (jonas.hereijgers@uantwerpen.be), doctor Sofie Delanoye (sofie.delanoye@uantwerpen.be )

The University of Antwerp is a family-friendly organization, with a focus on equal opportunities and diversity. Our HR-policy for researchers was awarded by the European Commission with the quality label ‘HR Excellence in research’.