PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Plasma Chemistry at the University of Antwerp, Belgium

Summary

The Department of Chemistry within the Faculty of Science at the University of Antwerp is seeking a highly motivated doctoral scholarship holder. This position offers an exciting opportunity to conduct cutting-edge, experimental research in non-thermal plasma chemistry, with a specific focus on energy-efficient nitrogen fixation—a key pillar in the electrification and sustainability of the chemical industry.

PhD Scholarship Opportunity: Plasma Chemistry at the University of Antwerp, Belgium

Key Information At a Glance

Research Area & Project Details

Experimental non-thermal plasma chemistry for energy-efficient nitrogen fixation ($N \equiv N$ triple bond activation) and sustainable chemical electrification.

You will join the PLASMANT research group under the supervision of Prof. Anton Nikiforov.

• Focus: Non-thermal, non-equilibrium pulsed plasmas for the activation of the $N \equiv N$ triple bond to achieve energy-efficient nitrogen fixation.
• Tasks: You will develop a pulsed plasma-chemical reactor operating at pressures between $0.5\text{ to }3\text{ bar}$. Chemical kinetics will be analyzed using in-situ plasma diagnostics, including time-resolved UV absorption spectroscopy and active laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy.

Eligibility & Qualifications

To be considered for this doctoral position, you must meet the following criteria:

• Academic Degree: You must hold an academic Master’s degree in Chemistry, Bio-engineering, Applied Sciences (Engineering), or Civil Engineering (with a specialization in chemistry). Candidates who will obtain their degree by the time of appointment are also eligible to apply.
• Academic Excellence: Outstanding study results during your academic career.
• Language Skills: Fluent communication skills in both English and Dutch.
• Personal Qualities: High motivation, academic integrity, quality-mindedness, and a strong commitment to applying for external funding (such as the FWO fellowships).

Job Description

As a doctoral researcher, your primary responsibilities will include:

• Actively preparing and defending your PhD thesis.
• Designing research plans and executing experimental work efficiently.
• Publishing scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals and presenting findings at international conferences.
• Assisting with a limited number of teaching and departmental support tasks within the Department of Chemistry.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform.

When applying, you must include the following attachments:

1. Motivation Letter
2. Academic CV
3. Signed letter of acceptance from your UAntwerp promotor alongside a statement confirming your willingness to apply for additional funding.

• For questions regarding the online form, contact jobs@uantwerpen.be.
• For questions regarding the research project itself, contact Prof. Anton Nikiforov directly at anton.nikkiforov@uantwerpen.be.

PhD Opportunity: Plasma Chemistry at UAntwerp

• Position: Doctoral Scholarship Holder (1-year initial contract, starting January 1, 2027).
• Research Focus: Non-thermal plasma chemistry for energy-efficient nitrogen fixation ($N \equiv N$ bond activation) under Prof. Anton Nikiforov in the PLASMANT group.
• Eligibility: Master’s degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, fluent in English and Dutch, with a commitment to securing external funding.
• Location: Campus Groenenborger, University of Antwerp, Belgium.
• To Apply: Submit your CV, motivation letter, and a signed acceptance letter from your UAntwerp promotor online.
• Deadline: August 31, 2026 (midnight Brussels time).

Last Date to Apply

• August 31, 2026 (Before midnight Brussels time)

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