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University of Antwerp
4 days ago
PhD in Chiral Gold Nanoparticles and Advanced Transmission Electron Microscopy University of Antwerp in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
A doctoral scholarship is offered for one year and may be renewed following a positive evaluation. The monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the University of Antwerp's scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders.
Deadline
Nov 26, 2026
Country
Belgium
University
University of Antwerp
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About this position
The EMAT research group in the Faculty of Science at the University of Antwerp is offering a PhD project on the structure-property connection of chiral gold nanoparticles using advanced transmission electron microscopy.
The research forms part of the ERC Synergy Grant project CHIRAL-PRO: Handshake Complexes of Chiral Nanoparticles and Proteins, a collaboration involving the University of Antwerp, CIC Biomagune, the University of Vigo and the University of Michigan. The broader project aims to develop methods for designing chiral nanoparticles with strong and predictable enantioselective interactions with biological entities including proteins and amyloid fibrils.
The doctoral researcher will characterize the three-dimensional structure and growth of chiral nanoparticles using advanced electron microscopy approaches. The project also examines the optical response of individual nanoparticles and nanoparticle assemblies inside the transmission electron microscope, using local spectroscopic techniques such as electron energy-loss spectroscopy and cathodoluminescence. The recently installed TEM instrument enables the injection and collection of light, supporting combined structural and optical investigations.
A further research direction is the development of methods for probing nanoparticle three-dimensional structure and optical response under liquid conditions. The researcher will collaborate closely with partner researchers to understand the growth of chiral nanoparticles, publish scientific results, present findings at workshops and conferences, and complete the University of Antwerp doctoral school requirements.
The work will be carried out mainly at Campus Groenenborger in a dynamic research environment with state-of-the-art microscopy, instrumentation and computing facilities. The project offers an interdisciplinary setting spanning materials science, nanophysics, chemistry, electron microscopy and optical spectroscopy.
Funding details
A doctoral scholarship is offered for one year and may be renewed following a positive evaluation. The monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the University of Antwerp's scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders.
What's required
Applicants must hold a Master's degree with a background in physics, chemistry or materials science. Interest in electron microscopy and noble-metal nanoparticles is expected, while hands-on TEM experience is advantageous. Applicants should have outstanding academic results, appropriate teaching competences, research qualities aligned with faculty and university policies, and be highly motivated, quality-oriented, conscientious, creative and cooperative. The application must include a motivation letter, academic CV, Master's thesis summary, a list with grades of courses taken, and the names of two professional referees.
How to apply
Apply through the University of Antwerp's online job application platform by midnight Brussels time on 26 November 2026. Complete the online form and upload a motivation letter, academic CV, Master's thesis summary, course list with grades, and names of two professional referees. For job-related questions, contact Sara Bals at [email protected].
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Prepare your application
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