Doctoral Fellow in Green Chemistry and Technology – Polymer Recycling and Sensing Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University invites applications for a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, focusing on advanced polymer recycling and sensing methodologies. The position is based in the Laboratory for Circular Process Engineering (LCPE) on the Kortrijk campus, supervised by Prof. Pieter Nachtergaele and Prof. Steven De Meester. The research group comprises a dynamic team of 22 PhD students, 3 postdocs, and 4 technicians, all dedicated to innovative chemical engineering for the circular economy, with a strong emphasis on pretreatment and downstream processing of waste materials.

The doctoral project centers on developing and applying state-of-the-art spectroscopic sensing techniques (such as NIR, Raman, and hyperspectral imaging), combined with machine learning and chemometric modelling, to monitor and control polymer recycling processes. The research aims to address the challenges posed by heterogeneous waste streams and the sensitivity of recycling technologies to contaminants. Collaboration with industrial partners and other LCPE colleagues is integral, ensuring that scientific findings are relevant to real-world waste management and recycling operations.

Successful candidates will be expected to publish their research in international peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences. The ultimate goal is to produce a PhD thesis that advances sustainable, circular solutions for the plastics industry. The supervisors, Prof. De Meester and Prof. Nachtergaele, bring extensive industry connections and expertise in waste management, supporting both fundamental and applied research approaches.

Applicants must hold a master's degree in chemical engineering, bioscience engineering, materials science, civil engineering, industrial engineering, or equivalent. Degrees in applied physics or chemistry with a strong engineering focus are also considered. Candidates should demonstrate a critical and analytical attitude, initiative, and a genuine interest in scientific research and sustainability. Strong organizational skills, self-motivation, perseverance, and excellent academic writing and oral presentation skills are required. Proficiency in English (written and spoken) is essential. Experience with spectroscopic sensing, chemometric or multivariate data analysis, polymer characterisation, plastic sorting, recycling technologies, laboratory work, experimental design, and programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or R are considered plus points.

The fellowship is offered for an initial period of 12 months, extendable up to a maximum of 48 months following positive evaluation. The salary is 100% of the net AAP member salary, determined by family status and seniority, and is tax-free. Ghent University staff enjoy a range of benefits, including training opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

To apply, send your CV, diploma, motivation letter, and contact details of at least one reference to Prof. Pieter Nachtergaele ([email protected]) before 31 May 2026. File names should follow the format: Type of document_First Name_Last Name.docx. Late applications will not be accepted. For further information, contact Prof. Nachtergaele directly.

Ghent University is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.