Doctoral scholarship holder plasma chemistry and physics

Let’s shape the future - University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape. 

The research group PLASMANT from the Department of Chemistry in the Faculty of Science is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of plasma chemistry and physics.

Position

• You will work actively on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis within the research group PLASMANT (Plasma Lab for Applications in Sustainability and Medicine – ANTwerp) on plasma for applications in sustainable chemistry. More specifically, plasma-based gas conversion in general (including CO₂ and CH₄, NOx formation from air, NH₃ cracking for H₂ production, plastic waste recycling, etc). Operation of various types of plasmas at atmospheric pressure (or slightly above), mainly warm plasmas (microwave, gliding arc, arc), but also DBD (for plasma catalysis). Computational fluid dynamics & kinetic modelling for process improvement and smart reactor design.
• 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 chemistry department.

Profile

• You hold a Master degree in physics, chemistry or engineering or you will have obtained it by the time you start work.
• 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.
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
• Background in physics, applied physics, (chemical) engineering or chemistry.
• Effective organisation and collaboration skills for teamwork and engagement with excellent spoken and written English.
• English language proficiency at level B2.

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of two years. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship will be renewed for another two years.
• The planned start date is September 2026, or as soon as possible after that date.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders.
• 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 June 30^th, 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
  • the contact information of 3 referees.
• 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 Dr Eduardo Morais, research manager at PLASMANT, [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 characteristics to apply.