Postdoctoral Researcher: Heterogeneous Catalytic Processes at Ghent University, Belgium

Job Summary

The Laboratory for Chemical Technology (LCT) at Ghent University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a short-term, 4-month appointment. This position offers the opportunity to work within Mark Saeys’ research group on two key projects: the process modeling and development of CO2 hydrogenation to methyl formate, and the reaction engineering and kinetic analysis of alkylamine synthesis.

Postdoctoral Researcher Opening: Heterogeneous Catalytic Processes at Ghent University, Belgium

Key Information

Research Area

Heterogeneous Catalysis & Reaction Engineering for Sustainable Chemical Processes

• Heterogeneous Catalysis: Sustainable chemical production, catalyst synthesis, and physicochemical characterization.
• Process Engineering: CO2 hydrogenation to methyl formate and catalytic alkylamine synthesis.

Eligibility & Qualifications

• Required: A PhD in Chemical Engineering with a strong background in heterogeneous catalysis and reaction engineering.
• Required Skills: Expertise in catalytic testing, process-oriented analysis, and simulation (preferably using Aspen Plus). Excellent English communication and scientific writing skills.
• Preferred: Experience with kinetic modeling, parameter estimation, microkinetic modeling, and programming tools such as Python or MATLAB.
• Requirement: Must be living in or ready to relocate to Belgium for the duration of the research.

Job Description

As a postdoctoral researcher, your core responsibilities will include:

• Reaction Engineering: Designing and conducting experiments for the synthesis of ethylamine and the optimization of CO2 hydrogenation.
• Modeling: Performing process simulations to optimize process configurations and developing kinetic models.
• Analysis: Interpreting experimental and modeling data to generate process design guidelines.
• Collaboration: Working independently and with partners, communicating findings, and contributing to scientific publications and presentations.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via the official Ghent University online e-recruitment system.

Required Documents (PDF format, max 10 MB each):

• CV: Include your full CV and academic transcript.
• Cover Letter: Your application letter.
• Diploma: A copy of the required degree (plus translation if not in Dutch, French, German, or English).

Note: Do not send applications via email.

Last Date to Apply

Applications must be submitted no later than July 12, 2026, at 23:59 (Brussels Time).

For further information, please contact Prof. Mark Saeys.

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