Doctoral Fellow in Sustainable Recycling: Ghent University is inviting applications for a Doctoral Fellow position as part of the Marie-Curie Doctoral Network SCARPA. This program aims to develop innovative solutions for footwear recycling, promoting sustainability in the footwear industry and addressing current challenges in the circular economy.
Doctoral Fellow in Sustainable Footwear Recycling
Designation
Doctoral Fellow
Research Area
- Sustainable Footwear Recycling
- Polymer Chemistry
- Environmental Engineering
Location
Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
Eligibility/Qualification
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields.
- Compliance with MSCA mobility rules: applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work/study) in Belgium for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to recruitment.
- Background in polymer recycling and material characterization is desirable but not mandatory.
- Strong analytical skills and familiarity with laboratory environments and equipment.
- Proficiency in English (C1 level required).
Job Description
The Doctoral Fellow will:
- Develop new physicochemical processes for recycling footwear materials.
- Focus on the interactions of solvents and reagents with various polymers and chemical bonds present in shoes.
- Utilize COSMO-RS molecular models and conduct diffusion experiments to analyze the dissolution and reaction kinetics.
- Create energy-efficient solutions for the dissolution and depolymerization of polymers and purify the resulting materials.
- Work collaboratively with academic and industry partners to advance research in sustainable footwear practices.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send an email to csc@lists.ugent.be by including the subject line: [SCARPA] DC9 – Application YourName. Applications must include:
- A merged PDF file of your CV and academic transcript.
- A cover letter detailing motivation for pursuing a PhD and interest in the project.
- At least one academic recommendation letter.
- A language certificate demonstrating English proficiency at C1 level.
Last Date to Apply
October 31, 2025
For more information about the SCARPA doctoral network, please contact csc@lists.ugent.be. For inquiries regarding this vacancy, reach out to Prof. Steven De Meester at Steven.DeMeester@UGent.be.
