Publisher
source

University of Luxembourg

PhD in Experimental Physics of Liquid Crystal Elastomer Tubes and Microfluidic Multiphase Flow University of Luxembourg in Luxembourg

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Chemistry

Funding

Full funding available
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Country

Luxembourg

University

University of Luxembourg

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Keywords

Chemistry
Biomedical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Experimental Physics
Chemical Engineering
Materials Science
Biotechnology
Biology
Soft Matter Physics
Technical Engineering
Microfluidic
Physics

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About this position

Doctoral Researcher in Experimental Physics of Liquid Crystal Elastomer Tubes and Microfluidic Multiphase Flow at the University of Luxembourg (Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine, Limpertsberg Campus).

This PhD project is part of the ERC SyG project ALCEMIST, coordinated by Prof. Jan Lagerwall at the University of Luxembourg, in collaboration with Prof. Maria Helena Godinho (NOVA University Lisbon, Portugal) and Prof. Eugene Terentjev (Cambridge University, UK). The research sits at the intersection of physics, materials science, chemistry, engineering, and biotechnology.

The successful candidate will develop microfluidic triple-phase flows using a liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) precursor to create either continuous tubes or discrete shell structures, then photopolymerize them into actuators. The project includes studying actuation triggered by heat or UV light and exploring their use as micropumps for organoid growth applications, including waste disposal and nutrient injection. The shell-based actuator route also involves designing and building additional components, potentially using 3D printing and related fabrication tools.

Requirements: an M.Sc. in Physics is ideal, though Materials Science, Chemistry, or Engineering may also fit. The post seeks a candidate with curiosity, openness, and the ability to work across disciplines. Strong English (C1) is required. Desirable experience includes soft matter physics, liquid crystals, elastomers, microfluidics, continuum/fluid mechanics, COMSOL simulation, interdisciplinary research, and hardware prototyping (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, CAD, CNC, laser cutting, 3D printing).

Funding: fixed-term full-time doctoral contract for 36 months; annual gross salary EUR 44,531.

How to apply: submit a CV, cover letter, transcript, and a 1-page essay on the main technical/scientific challenges, plus a brief note on any AI used in preparing the essay. Apply online only; email applications will not be considered.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

More information can be found here

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