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The Department of Chemistry in the Faculty of Science is looking for one full-time doctoral scholarship holders in the field of plasma chemistry
Position
- You will work actively on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of plasma chemistry in the research group PLASMANT, under the supervision of Prof. Anton Nikiforov within the Department of Chemistry at the University of Antwerp. The research group focuses on plasmas for various applications, with a primary emphasis on sustainable chemistry, electrification, and medical applications. The group's expertise is focused on experimental research using different types of plasma reactors (gliding arc, arc, microwave plasmas, glow discharges, and dielectric barrier discharges), as well as the modelling of plasma chemistry, plasma reactor design, and plasma-catalyst interactions. Your research will focus on non-thermal plasma playing a pivotal role in the electrification of the chemical industry. Among various processes, the activation of the NºN triple bond in non-equilibrium pulsed plasmas is a key point for energy-efficient nitrogen fixation. Precise control over the selectivity of the plasma processes can be achieved in pulsed plasma driven by tailored voltage and current pulses. In this PhD project, you will develop a pulsed plasma-chemical reactor for nitrogen fixation operating in a pressure range of 0.5 to 3 bar. The chemical kinetics of nitrogen fixation will be investigated by in-situ plasma diagnostic methods, including time-resolved UV absorption spectroscopy and active laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy. You will collaborate with researchers in other groups and universities. In addition to your thesis, you will disseminate your research at conferences and in journal publications.
- You will draw up a research plan and corresponding research methods in consultation with your supervisor(s) and undertake the necessary administration for a smooth PhD process.
- You will conduct the research efficiently and to an appropriate standard, possibly abroad, and compete for funding for general or specific costs.
- You will report progress to your supervisor(s) and committees, and present your research at scientific conferences.
- You will defend your thesis publicly and aim for publication in the scientific press.
- You will publish scientific articles related to the research project.
- You will carry out a limited number of teaching and research support tasks for the Department of Chemistry.
- You perform research and publish scientific articles related to the research project.
- You carry out a number of teaching, research and service support tasks for the Department of Chemistry.
Profile
- You hold an academic Master degree in Chemistry, bio-engineering, in applied sciences (engineering) or civil engineering, each time with specialization in chemistry. Candidates that obtain their master degree ultimately at the moment of appointing the scholarship can also apply.
- You can demonstrate excellent study results.
- Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
- Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies and the Department of Chemistry.
- You are a motivated person, willing to show commitment for a doctoral project, and to apply for an external funded fellowship (e.g., FWO fellowships 2027).
- You can communicate fluently in English and Dutch.
- You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
- You show a pronounced interest in the research in the field of plasma chemistry in the research group of Anton Nikiforov within the Chemistry department at the University of Antwerp.
What we offer
- We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of one year. Together with your supervisor, you will look for additional funding.
- The planned start date is 1 January 2027.
- Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders on the pay scales for contract research staff (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP).
- As a doctoral researcher, you will have access to a wide and varied range of courses and an educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
- You will receive ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
- You will do most of your work at campus Groenenborger in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
- Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.
Want to apply?
- You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including 31 August 2026 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
- a motivation letter
- your academic CV
- a signed letter of acceptance from your UAntwerp promotor and a statement that you are willing to look for additional funding.
- The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure.
- If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to [email protected]. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact prof. Anton Nikkiforov ([email protected]).
The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse chara
