Postdoctoral Position – Novel Plastic: The Ameloot group at the KU Leuven Center for Membrane Separations, Adsorption, Catalysis, and Spectroscopy (cMACS) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join their team. The research will focus on developing sustainable methods and novel materials for improving plastic recycling through better material detection. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in a renowned university with a rich history of academic excellence.
Designation: Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Research Area: Novel Plastic Sorting Methods based on Markers
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Eligibility/Qualification:
- A strong academic track record and a PhD in sustainable chemistry, polymer chemistry, plastics recycling, or a related field in Science and Engineering.
- Passion for resource management, industrial applications, and novel techniques.
- Experience working as part of an interdisciplinary team and mentoring younger colleagues.
- Demonstrated out-of-the-box thinking and practical problem-solving skills.
- Interest in valorization (e.g., spin-off creation) is a plus.
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Job Description: The postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for developing novel and more efficient methods for sorting and recycling plastics, with a focus on dark-colored plastics. The key responsibilities include:
- Tagging black plastics from waste electronics and automotive shredder residue with different dyes according to a patented method.
- Exploring alternative detection mechanisms and chemistries to tag and sort relevant plastics that are not currently in the portfolio.
- Developing a deep understanding of the mechanisms involved, including computational methods if necessary.
- Increasing the technology readiness level of the developed processes for industrial applications.
- Keeping abreast of market requirements and setting priorities accordingly.
| Type of Employment | Temporary position |
|---|---|
| Contract Type | Full time |
| First Day of Employment | As soon as your schedule permits |
| Number of Positions | 1 |
| Full-time Equivalent | 100% |
| City | Leuven |
| Country | Belgium |
| Reference Number | Not specified |
| Contact | Prof. Rob Ameloot |
| Rob.Ameloot@kuleuven.be | |
| Published | Not specified |
| Last Application Date | June 2 |
The researcher will collaborate with scientists and engineers with expertise in polymer chemistry and spectroscopy. Some aspects of the project will involve collaboration with industrial partners.
Profile: The ideal candidate should possess the following qualities and qualifications:
- Strong academic track record and a PhD in a relevant field.
- Passion for resource management, industrial applications, and novel techniques.
- Ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary team and mentor younger colleagues.
- Demonstrated out-of-the-box thinking and practical problem-solving skills.
- Interest in valorization and spin-off creation.
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
Offer:
- An interesting research position in the vibrant student town of Leuven.
- Involvement in a project focused on solving real-world problems and applying scientific knowledge to industrial challenges.
How to Apply: Interested candidates are requested to submit their application through the KU Leuven portal. For any inquiries about this position, contact Prof. Rob Ameloot (Rob.Ameloot@kuleuven.be) via email, mentioning “Postdoc position plastics sorting” in the subject line.
- Preferred starting date: As soon as your schedule permits.
- Application deadline: June 2, 2023.
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