PhD Scholarship –Fluid-Fluid Interfaces: Wageningen University, The Netherlands, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in the Physics of Soft Matter research group. The project, supervised by Dr. ir. Udo Sen, focuses on investigating the mechanisms of evaporation-driven self-assembly of colloidal particles and polymers at confined fluid-fluid interfaces. This interdisciplinary research combines advanced experimental methods, theoretical modeling, and soft matter physics to understand one of the most essential processes in nature and industry.
PhD Scholarship Opportunity – Evaporation-Driven Self-Assembly at Fluid-Fluid Interfaces
Designation
PhD Candidate
Research Area
- Soft Matter Physics
- Fluid Mechanics
- Interfacial Self-Assembly
- Experimental & Computational Modeling
- Optical and Fluorescence Microscopy
Location
Physics of Soft Matter Group
Wageningen University & Research (WUR)
Wageningen, The Netherlands
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Master’s degree (MSc or equivalent) in (applied) physics, molecular life sciences, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, applied mathematics, or a closely related discipline.
- Strong background in fluid mechanics and soft matter physics.
- Proven skills in experimental techniques, image/data analysis, and mathematical or computational modeling.
- Experience in colloidal synthesis and microscopy techniques (optical/fluorescence) is highly desirable.
- Excellent proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Strong quantitative, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
- Proactive and innovative approach to research challenges.
Job Description / Responsibilities
The selected PhD candidate will:
- Design and conduct experiments on evaporation of confined multicomponent liquids.
- Perform high-resolution microscopy-based characterization of interfacial self-assembly.
- Develop and apply theoretical models to capture spatiotemporal dynamics.
- Collaborate with colleagues from diverse scientific backgrounds.
- Disseminate findings through peer-reviewed publications, conferences, and outreach activities.
- Supervise and guide bachelor and master students in related projects.
How to Apply
Applications should include the following documents:
- Motivation letter (max 1 page) describing your research interests, experience, and why you are applying for this project.
- Detailed CV.
- Contact details (name, email) of at least two academic referees willing to provide recommendation letters.
- Applicants should be prepared for an interview including a scientific presentation of their previous work.
Apply via the official Wageningen University application portal [link].
Key Details
- Position Type: PhD (4 years, fully funded)
- Start Date: Late 2025 (can be early 2026)
- Supervisor: Dr. ir. Udo Sen
- Research Team: Physics of Soft Matter, Wageningen University
- Application Deadline: 08 September 2025
