About the opportunity
PhD project focused on developing innovative light-driven strategies (photocatalytic and photothermal approaches) for the chemical recycling of polymers to transform plastic waste into valuable chemical building blocks. The position is part of the SPECTRA project, a Horizon Europe EIC Pathfinder initiative involving academic and industrial partners from the Netherlands, Sweden, and Italy. Research is conducted within the the Polymer Performance Materials research group under the supervision of Prof. Fabian Eisenreich in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at Eindhoven University of Technology.
Salary and benefits
- Monthly gross salary between €3,204 and €4,051 (Scale P) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- Year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
- Pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, and partially paid parental leave.
- Allowance for commuting, working from home, and internet costs.
- Compensation for moving expenses and access to a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates.
- Support from a Staff Immigration Team for international candidates.
- High-quality training programs to develop as an autonomous scientific researcher.
- Access to on-campus children's day care and sports facilities, including the TU/e Student Sports Center at an affordable rate.
Who can apply?
- BSc and MSc degree in Chemistry.
- Strong background in organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, and/or catalysis.
- Essential experience in the synthesis and characterization of organic molecules.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
- Strong analytical skills, initiative, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
- Scientific mindset with a hands-on approach and interest in application-oriented research.
- Ability to work in an international, collaborative, and socially engaging environment.
Required documents
- Cover letter describing motivation and qualifications for the position.
- Curriculum vitae (CV), including contact information for two references.
When to apply
- Ideal start date: October 01, 2026.
- Application deadline: August 30, 2026.
- The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.
How to apply
- Submit a complete application online via the apply button.
- The selection procedure includes interviews, a scientific presentation, and a small writing assignment.
- A pre-employment screening (e.g., knowledge security check) may be part of the selection process.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- You have a solid academic background in chemistry, specifically organic or polymer chemistry.
- You possess hands-on experience in the synthesis and characterization of organic molecules.
- You are motivated by application-oriented research and interested in sustainable chemical recycling.
What should you think carefully about?
- The selection process is rigorous, including interviews, a presentation, and a writing assignment.
- You should be aware that a pre-employment screening, including a knowledge security check, may be required.
- The position requires relocation to Eindhoven for full-time, on-site research.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This PhD position allows you to contribute to a high-impact Horizon Europe project, providing you with specialized training in photocatalysis and the opportunity to work with international industrial and academic partners.
Our take
This is a great fit for chemistry graduates with a hands-on approach to sustainability; those who prefer theoretical modeling over laboratory synthesis may find this role less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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