PhD Candidate in Advanced System Modelling for Circular Plastics Recycling (RePlaCE Project) Maastricht University in Netherlands

Maastricht University invites applications for a PhD position in Advanced System Modelling for Circular Plastics Recycling as part of the RePlaCE project. The demand for high-quality recycled plastics is rapidly increasing, and this project aims to develop smarter, data-driven recycling technologies to recover more and better plastics from end-of-life vehicles (ELV) and waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). As a PhD candidate, you will join the Circular Chemical Engineering department, working within the Circular Plastics team led by Prof. Kim Ragaert and Assistant Professor Sin Yong Teng. The team is multidisciplinary, international, and highly connected to industry, with labs located at the Brightlands Chemelot Campus, the largest chemical site in the Netherlands.

Your research will focus on advancing data-driven models to improve the quality and yield of recycled plastics. You will coordinate with project stakeholders, study the ELV/WEEE plastics value chain, develop new methodologies for fundamental modelling, and generate data through laboratory analytics and industrial trials. The project combines analytical insight with real-world recycling trials, aiming for industrial impact and dissemination through conferences, meetings, and workshops.

Applicants should have a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related modelling field. Experience in process system modelling and data-driven modelling/AI is highly desirable. Familiarity with recycling processes, circularity, and the plastics recycling value chain is a bonus. Strong computational skills (e.g., Python) and proficiency in English are required. The position offers a 12-month contract with the prospect of a 3-year extension, a competitive salary (€3,059–€3,881/month), holiday and year-end bonuses, generous vacation days, flexible working hours, home office allowance, pension plan, fitness schemes, and access to university sports facilities.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) at Maastricht University is a vibrant hub for interdisciplinary research and education in STEM and Liberal Arts and Sciences. The faculty is active across four Brightlands campuses, each specializing in different areas such as chemical innovation, agri-food, health, and smart services. Maastricht University is committed to diversity and inclusion, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for staff and students.

To apply, submit your CV (with at least two references), your two most relevant publications, and a motivation letter (max 1 page) via the AcademicTransfer link. The application deadline is 15 July 2026. Interviews will be held before 25 July and, if necessary, before the end of August. An orientation day may be part of the procedure. For more information, visit the Circular Plastics team page or contact Dr. Sin Yong Teng.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about sustainability, circularity, and advanced modelling in plastics recycling, offering a chance to contribute to impactful research in a dynamic academic and industrial setting.