PhD Candidate in Rheology of Diluted Polymer Melts Maastricht University in Netherlands

Maastricht University’s Circular Plastics research group is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join their team at the Faculty of Science and Engineering, located at the Brightlands Chemelot Campus in Geleen. The project focuses on developing predictive rheological insights into the processing behavior of polymer melts under dilution, with the aim of advancing fundamental understanding and modeling of viscosity reduction in polymer–diluent systems. This research is directly relevant to improving extrusion and recycling technologies for plastics.

The successful candidate will investigate how dilution affects polymer melt viscosity and develop physically grounded models that connect thermodynamics, rheology, and processing. The work will generate fundamental insights to improve the predictability and efficiency of mechanical recycling and extrusion processes. The candidate will be part of a young, international research group specializing in mechanical recycling of plastics, and will be guided by Dr. Ali Gooneie, with collaborative support from Prof. Steven De Meester (Ghent University, Belgium) and Prof. Nino Grizzuti (University of Naples, Italy).

Key responsibilities include designing and performing experiments using extrusion equipment and rheometry, investigating physical mechanisms governing viscosity reduction, developing and refining rheological models for polymer–diluent mixtures, studying the influence of molecular architecture on rheological behavior, and extending modeling approaches to complex recycling streams. The candidate will also present research at international conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, contribute to teaching activities, and supervise MSc/BSc students.

Applicants should hold an MSc degree in Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related field, with a strong background in polymer rheology and physics. Experience with experimental techniques such as rheometry and extrusion is highly desirable, and a solid understanding of transport phenomena or continuum mechanics is advantageous. Excellent communication skills in English are required.

The position offers a 12-month contract with the prospect of a three-year extension, a gross monthly salary between €3,059 and €3,881 (full-time, 38 hours/week), 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% year-end bonus, 29 vacation days, four additional days off, and the possibility to accrue up to 12 extra days. Flexible working hours, a home office allowance, pension plan, company fitness schemes, and access to university sports facilities are also provided. The Faculty of Science and Engineering is a vibrant hub for interdisciplinary research and education, with a strong focus on circularity, sustainability, and STEM fields.

To apply, candidates should submit their CV, motivation letter, grade list, and publication list (if applicable) via the online application link. The position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Maastricht University is committed to diversity and inclusion, and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.