PhD Position in Sustainable Organic Chemistry: The University of Antwerp, Belgium, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Sustainable Organic Chemistry with a focus on Organic Synthesis and Catalysis. The position is part of the interdisciplinary iBOF project “Engineered Carbon Surfaces for Sustainable Catalysis,” in collaboration with KU Leuven.
PhD Position in Sustainable Organic Chemistry (Organic Synthesis/Catalysis)
Designation
PhD Researcher
Research Area
- Organic Synthesis
- Sustainable Catalysis
- Carbon Surface-Based Catalysts
- Green Chemistry
Location
University of Antwerp, Department of Chemistry
Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerpen, Belgium
Collaboration with KU Leuven (approx. 50 km away)
Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s degree in Chemistry or Bioscience Engineering (chemistry focus)
- Strong theoretical and practical knowledge in organic synthesis
- Experience with analytical separation techniques, mass spectrometry, and structural characterization
- Ability to work independently and in a team
- Strong communication and writing skills in English
- Interest in multidisciplinary and collaborative research
- Willingness to travel between Antwerp and Leuven
Job Description
The PhD candidate will work in the Maes Group (Organic Synthesis Division – ORSY) within the Centre of Excellence CASCH and the InSusChem Valorization Platform. The research involves:
- Designing and synthesizing novel catalysts based on carbon surfaces (e.g., graphene)
- Investigating these catalysts for the transformation of bio-renewable platform molecules
- Employing a wide range of organic reactions
- Collaborating with KU Leuven on surface characterization and heterogeneous catalysis
- Contributing to innovative, sustainable chemistry solutions for industrial applications
How to Apply
Submit the following documents via email to VacancyORSY@uantwerpen.be:
- Detailed CV
- Motivation letter
- Contact details of at least one previous supervisor
Subject line: Application PhD iBOF
Only complete applications will be considered.
Last Date to Apply
August 1, 2025
Start Date: September/October 2025
For more details, visit the Maes Group website or contact:
Prof. Dr. Bert U.W. Maes
Email: VacancyORSY@uantwerpen.be
Tel: +32 3 265 32 05
