The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is offering a fully funded PhD position as part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network UP2MEM, focusing on the development of polymer nanofiber membranes from recycled membrane waste materials. The project is rooted in sustainability and circular economy principles, aiming to transform end-of-life membrane waste into functional nanofiber membranes using advanced electrospinning techniques. The research will evaluate the performance of these membranes in water treatment and food production applications, contributing to the advancement of membrane technologies for the water and food industries.

The successful candidate will join DTU Sustain, one of Europe's largest university departments specializing in environmental and resource engineering, and will collaborate closely with other PhD students and researchers across the UP2MEM network. The project also involves conducting prospective life cycle assessments (pLCA) to identify environmental hotspots and guide the selection of materials and energy sources, ensuring the sustainability of the developed solutions. The PhD student will have opportunities for secondments at industry partners and research stays at partner universities, gaining valuable experience in both academic and industrial settings.

Applicants should have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in material science and engineering, environmental engineering, chemistry, chemical engineering, or mechanical engineering. Experience with polymer materials, membranes, or waste materials is advantageous, as is prior involvement in EU-funded or international research collaborations. Candidates must comply with MSCA mobility rules, meaning they must not have resided or carried out main activities in Denmark for more than 12 months in the three years prior to the application deadline.

The position is full-time for three years, with salary and benefits in line with Danish regulations. DTU offers a dynamic, international research environment with a commitment to academic excellence, inclusivity, and knowledge sharing. The application deadline is 15 December 2025, and the preferred start date is 1 April 2026.

For further information, applicants may contact Dr. Wenjing (Angela) Zhang or Dr. Anders Damgaard. DTU Sustain is dedicated to developing new environmentally friendly and sustainable technologies, methods, and solutions, and disseminating this knowledge to society and future generations of engineers.

The department has approximately 300 staff from more than 30 nationalities, fostering an inclusive and international atmosphere. DTU itself is a leading technical university globally recognized for research, education, innovation, and scientific advice, with a mission to develop technology for people and address global challenges. The university has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees, and collaborates with top universities worldwide. The PhD position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable technology development in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.