Postdoctoral Fellow in Microwave Plasma Technology for Waste Gasification – Department of Applied Physics Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University’s Department of Applied Physics is offering a postdoctoral fellowship in the Research Unit Plasma Technology (RUPT), focusing on the development of innovative microwave plasma technology for sustainable waste gasification. The SUSPLASM project aims to design and implement advanced, fully electrified thermal plasma-based gasification processes with zero or negative CO2 footprint, targeting the treatment of complex organic pollutants and microplastics. The main goal is to produce syngas—a valuable precursor for renewable chemicals and fuels—using plasma gasification, which offers significant advantages over conventional incineration and non-plasma gasification technologies, especially in the removal of recalcitrant organic pollutants and synthetic materials.

RUPT is internationally recognized for its expertise in atmospheric pressure plasmas and plasma technology, with interdisciplinary collaborations spanning environmental technology and materials science. The successful candidate will join a team working at the forefront of plasma physics, green technology, and circular economy models, contributing to the valorisation of waste and the synthesis of valuable chemicals and materials. The project is a joint initiative with partners from Ghent University, University of Antwerp, and the Institute of Plasma Physics, Prague, aiming to establish new technology in thermal plasma processing and support the growing hydrogen chemistry economy.

The postdoctoral fellow will be responsible for designing microwave (MW) plasma reactors, supervising reactor installation, investigating chemical kinetics of MW plasma (including optical emission diagnostics), and performing gas phase analysis of stable products. The position also involves coordinating the work of PhD students and overseeing scientific aspects of MW reactor installation and process diagnostics. The research offers opportunities to gain experience in chemical engineering, plasma technology, and waste management by plasma gasification, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and diagnostics platforms at RUPT.

Applicants must hold a PhD in chemical engineering, applied physics, or electrical engineering, or an equivalent recognized qualification. Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in plasma physics and reactor design, with previous experience in microwave plasma and MW reactor design for solid gasification highly desirable. English language proficiency at level B2 is required, and candidates must have at least three peer-reviewed publications related to the project’s scope, published or accepted by the application deadline. The fellowship is open only to postdoctoral researchers in international mobility, with specific residency requirements.

The position offers a full-time contract for a minimum of 2 years, with a competitive salary equal to the net salary of a doctoral assistant (AAP 5) at Ghent University, potentially higher based on experience and competences. Staff benefits include extensive training opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers. For more information on salary scales and staff benefits, refer to the university’s official resources.

To apply, candidates should send their CV (including publication list and contact details of three referees), motivation letter, and official proof of English language skills to Dr. Karen Leus ([email protected]) and Dr. Anton Nikiforov ([email protected]) by December 10, 2025. For further details and to access the application portal, visit this link.