Doctoral Fellow in Solid State Sciences – Operando Thermometry of Catalysts Ghent University in Belgium

This doctoral fellowship at Ghent University’s Department of Solid State Sciences offers an exciting opportunity to advance operando thermometry methods for heterogeneous catalysts, focusing on thermo-catalytic CO2 conversion. The research is embedded within the Conformal Coating of Nanomaterials (CoCooN) group, renowned for its expertise in atomic layer deposition (ALD), physical vapor deposition (PVD), and advanced X-ray characterization techniques. The PhD project aims to develop next-generation operando X-ray thermometry tools and novel optical laser-based methods to chart nanoscale heat transport within catalysts, moving beyond the group’s recent pioneering work published in Nature Catalysis.

Key tasks include synthesizing metal nanoparticle catalysts via ALD/PVD, participating in international synchrotron experiments (e.g., ESRF, SOLEIL), pioneering optical laser-based methods for heat flow tracking, and simulating heat transport bottlenecks using COMSOL/OpenFOAM. The role also involves script-based data analysis of large datasets, writing first-authored manuscripts for flagship journals, contributing to international conferences, supervising MSc students, and assisting in departmental teaching activities.

The CoCooN group provides a stimulating, international research environment with strong industry contacts and state-of-the-art facilities. The PhD topic is part of an FWO-funded project, offering daily and weekly contact with colleagues and supervisors, regular group meetings, and opportunities for professional growth. The fellowship is a full-time position for up to 48 months, with an initial 12-month period extended upon positive evaluation. The grant is tax-free and includes comprehensive staff benefits such as training opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

Applicants must hold a Master degree in physics, chemical or physics engineering, chemistry, or a related discipline by the appointment date. Excellent English proficiency, strong scientific reasoning, motivation for the research topic, independence, and responsibility are required. Proficiency in Matlab and Python is mandatory. Experience in heterogeneous catalysis, heat transport, ALD/PVD, synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopy-diffraction, and simulation software (COMSOL/OpenFOAM) is highly valued.

To apply, submit your CV, motivation letter, diploma (if obtained), list of grades, and contact details of two references as a single PDF file to Prof. Matthias Filez at [email protected], using the subject line 'Application FWO-Thermometry PhD'. Applications not matching the outlined format will not be considered. The position is open until filled, with a final application deadline of August 31, 2026. For further information, visit CoCooN group website or contact Prof. Filez directly.