Summary
The University of Antwerp, Belgium, invites applications for a fully funded Doctoral Scholarship in Computational Chemistry within the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science. The successful candidate will join the Modelling and Simulation in Chemistry (MOSAIC) research group and work on atomistic modelling of seeded emulsion polymerization using molecular dynamics simulations and machine-learning potentials.
The research aims to understand monomer transport, polymer chain growth, molecular interactions, polymer dynamics, phase compatibility, and morphology development. Candidates with a Master’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Physical Engineering, or a related discipline are encouraged to apply.
Designation
Doctoral Scholarship Holder (PhD Researcher) in Computational Chemistry
Research Area
- Computational Chemistry
- Molecular Dynamics Simulations
- Molecular Quantum Chemistry
- Polymer Science and Polymerization
- Machine-Learning Potentials
- Atomistic Modelling
- Computational Materials Science
Location
Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science
University of Antwerp, Campus Groenenborger
Antwerp, Belgium
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a Master’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Physical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Have a background in molecular quantum chemistry and/or computational chemistry.
- Experience with molecular dynamics simulations and/or polymer science is recommended.
- Experience with Python programming will be considered an advantage.
- Possess good written and spoken English communication skills.
- Demonstrate research qualities aligned with the university’s research policies.
- Show commitment to research quality, integrity, creativity, and collaboration.
Scholarship Description
The University of Antwerp offers the following benefits:
- Scholarship Duration: Initially one year, renewable annually following a positive evaluation, up to a maximum of four years.
- Scholarship Amount: Monthly scholarship according to the University of Antwerp’s official doctoral scholarship payment scale.
- Additional Benefits: Ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, and bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs.
- Research Environment: Opportunity to join the MOSAIC research group and collaborate closely with the experimental iPRACS research group.
- Training Opportunities: Access to academic courses, professional development, and educational credits through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
- Academic Development: Opportunities to attend scientific conferences, publish research papers, and participate in academic activities.
- Teaching Responsibilities: Limited support tasks related to teaching and/or research management.
- Expected Starting Date: 1 February 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Research Responsibilities
The selected candidate will:
- Conduct a PhD project on atomistic modelling of seeded emulsion polymerization.
- Apply molecular dynamics simulations to investigate monomer transport and polymer chain growth.
- Develop and implement machine-learning potentials for realistic polymer environments.
- Investigate polymer dynamics, phase compatibility, molecular interactions, and morphology development.
- Collaborate with experimental researchers to compare simulation results with experimental findings.
- Prepare and defend a doctoral thesis.
- Publish research findings in scientific journals and present them at conferences.
- Contribute to ongoing research activities within the Department of Chemistry.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply through the University of Antwerp’s official online job application portal.
Required Documents:
- Motivation Letter.
- Academic Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Application Procedure:
- Visit the official University of Antwerp vacancy page.
- Search for Job ID: 4594 – Doctoral Scholarship Holder Computational Chemistry.
- Click on the ‘Apply’ button.
- Complete the online application form and upload the required documents.
Contact Information:
- General application queries: jobs@uantwerpen.be
- Research-related queries: Jelle Vekeman, Assistant Professor
- Email: jelle.vekeman@uantwerpen.be
Official Website: https://www.uantwerpen.be/en/jobs/
Last Date for Apply
10 December 2026 (by midnight Brussels time).
Selection Interview Dates: 17 and 18 December 2027 (as stated in the vacancy announcement).
Expected Starting Date: 1 February 2027.
Job ID: 4594
Application Tip: Applicants should highlight their experience in computational chemistry, molecular dynamics simulations, Python programming, and polymer science in their CV and motivation letter.
