Pedro Fardim
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3 months ago
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Biofabrication of Functional Cellulose KU Leuven in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Available
Deadline
Sep 15, 2026
Country
Belgium
University
KU Leuven
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About this position
PhD opportunity at KU Leuven: Biofabrication of Functional Cellulose
This PhD project is hosted by the Department of Chemical Engineering at KU Leuven in Leuven, Belgium, and will be mainly conducted in the Chemical and Biochemical Reactor Engineering and Safety (CREaS) division, within the laboratory of Topochemical Engineering and Biointerfaces (TEOS) led by Prof. Pedro Fardim.
The project focuses on cellulose as a versatile biopolymer for advanced applications such as coatings, gels, and adsorbents. The successful candidate will use bioprocess engineering approaches to design advanced cellulose-based materials, investigate the macromolecular mechanisms underlying cellulose biosynthesis in bacteria, and study how bioprocess parameters influence the structural and morphological changes of cellulose materials. A key objective is to relate structure and morphology to the final functionality of the materials.
The research sits at the interface of chemical engineering, biotechnology, biopolymer fabrication, and biomaterials. It offers access to advanced technologies for biopolymer fabrication and functionalization, and the project is embedded in a collaborative environment with experts in biopolymer and biomaterial technology. The TEOS group works across the whole value chain, from production to bioproduct fabrication, and collaborates closely with biomedical, food, pharmaceutical, and industrial partners.
Eligibility highlights: a master degree in Engineering, Biosciences, or (Bio)Chemistry; strong hands-on laboratory skills; independence and perseverance; curiosity; and good English communication skills. The post is a PhD position with a duration of approximately 3 to 4 years, including independent research and coursework.
Funding/application: the listing states a doctoral degree after 3 to 4 years and describes the position as a PhD opportunity, but it does not provide a separate stipend or salary amount in the supplied text. The application deadline is 2026-09-15. Applications should be submitted via the KU Leuven job portal using the provided link. For questions, contact Prof. dr. Pedro Fardim at [email protected].
KU Leuven emphasizes an inclusive and respectful research environment and encourages diversity among applicants.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should hold a master degree in Engineering, Biosciences, or (Bio)Chemistry. Strong laboratory planning and execution skills are required, together with independence, perseverance, curiosity, and a positive attitude toward challenges. Applicants should be open to collaborating with top-level international researchers and interested in advancing sustainable biomaterial technologies. English language skills in reading, listening, writing, and speaking are required.
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Professors
Professor
Belgium
Research Interests
Polymer Chemistry
Biomaterials
Materials Science
Polymer Synthesis
Chemical Engineering
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.