PhD Position in Molecular Engineering: The University of Amsterdam invites applications for a fully-funded PhD position under the supervision of Dr. Bettina Baumgartner at the Van ‘t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS). The selected candidate will focus on synthesizing and characterizing innovative iron-based Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) designed for the selective and sustainable oxidation of methane to methanol under room temperature conditions. This project combines materials science, spectroscopy, and catalysis and presents opportunities to contribute to green and sustainable chemistry innovation.
PhD Position in Molecular Engineering of MOFs for Selective Methane Oxidation
Designation
PhD Candidate
Details Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Candidate |
| Research Area | Molecular Engineering, Materials Chemistry, Spectroscopy, Methane Oxidation |
| Location | Van ‘t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Duration | 4 years (initial 18-month contract, extendable upon satisfactory evaluation) |
| Hours per week | 38 |
| Salary Range | €2,901 (1st year) – €3,707 (final year) per month (excluding 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% bonus) |
| Benefits | 232 vacation hours, paid parental leave, pension plan, professional growth opportunities |
| Application Deadline | September 1, 2025 |
| Preferred Start Date | September 1, 2025 |
Research Area
The project focuses on:
- Molecular Engineering of MOFs: Design and synthesis of iron-based porous materials.
- Reaction Mechanisms: Investigation of methane-to-methanol conversions at room temperature.
- Spectroscopic Analysis: Application of advanced techniques such as XRD, NMR, FTIR, UV-Vis, EPR, and XAS.
- Catalysis and Green Chemistry: Developing sustainable solutions for methane oxidation that minimize CO₂ emissions.
Location
Van ‘t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants must fulfill the following criteria:
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Enthusiasm for working across synthesis, spectroscopy, and catalysis with a desire to learn advanced techniques.
- Strong critical thinking skills, laboratory organization, and attention to data accuracy.
- Willingness to learn data analysis tools (e.g., Python or MATLAB) under guidance.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in air-sensitive synthesis or metal complex chemistry.
- Familiarity with in situ/operando spectroscopy or expertise in coordination/organometallic chemistry.
Description
The PhD candidate will:
- Synthesize and characterize organic linkers and MOFs.
- Test catalytic performance for methane-to-methanol conversion under mild conditions.
- Leverage spectroscopic techniques to explore reaction mechanisms.
- Collaborate with InCatT, an industrial partner, for high-throughput screening of catalysts.
- Participate in regular discussions, mentorship opportunities, and scientific presentations.
- Attend professional growth courses, conferences, and contribute to publications.
The working environment will be in a dynamic, interdisciplinary, and collaborative team passionate about advancing sustainable chemistry by creating real-world impact.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must:
- Submit a motivation letter, CV, and contact details of two references.
- Apply via the official University of Amsterdam career portal by the red application button available on the job page.
For further inquiries, contact Dr. Bettina Baumgartner (b.baumgartner@uva.nl).
Last Date to Apply
September 1, 2025
This unique position offers extensive professional and academic training, competitive benefits, and the opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable chemistry research. Apply now to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in methane-to-methanol conversion.
