Ewald Janssens

This PhD scholarship at KU Leuven offers an exciting opportunity to join the Quantum Solid-state Physics (QSP) research unit within the Department of Physics and Astronomy. QSP is renowned for its experimental research into solid-state systems, focusing on quantum phenomena at the atomic and microscopic scale. The group investigates the origin and tunability of functional electronic properties—such as magnetism, superconductivity, and semiconductivity—in systems ranging from single-atom defects to nanoscale clusters, 2D materials, thin films, and 3D heterostructures. The successful candidate will join the cluster research team led by Professors Peter Lievens and Ewald Janssens. The team is actively engaged in studies of optical properties, magnetism, and chemical reactivity of metal and carbon hybrid clusters. Current projects include exploring the interaction of hydrogen with gas-phase carbon-metal clusters and investigating carbon dioxide reduction using fullerene-transition metal hybrids as catalysts. Another research focus is the systematic study of magnetism in rare earth metal clusters, particularly how doping with 3d transition metals affects their magnetic properties. Experimental work will involve advanced techniques such as mass spectrometry, infrared and visible light spectroscopy using OPO/OPA tunable lasers, in-beam reactivity studies, and Stern-Gerlach magnetic deflection experiments. KU Leuven’s state-of-the-art setups feature laser ablation sources for producing metal-doped carbon clusters, fullerenes with transition metals, and nanoalloys of transition metal and rare earth elements. Additionally, far-infrared spectroscopy experiments will be conducted at the FELIX free electron laser facility in The Netherlands, providing access to unique research infrastructure. Applicants should be motivated experimental scientists with a master’s degree in physics, chemistry, or a closely related field. Preferred qualifications include knowledge in cluster science, nanoscience, and/or laser spectroscopy, as well as experience with high-vacuum technology, molecular beams, infrared lasers, cluster sources, and mass spectrometry. The position requires structured, transparent, and accurate work habits, strong teamwork and communication skills, and a passion for research. English proficiency is essential due to the international and collaborative nature of the team. The scholarship offers a 4-year funded PhD position, including a stipend and research support. The successful candidate will also participate in teaching assistant tasks. KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity and equal opportunity for all. The university is located in Leuven, a vibrant and multicultural city in the heart of Europe, just 20 minutes from Brussels. Applications are open until January 31, 2026. Interested candidates should apply online via the KU Leuven jobsite. For further information, contact Prof. Peter Lievens or Prof. Ewald Janssens by email. Join a dynamic team and contribute to cutting-edge research in quantum solid-state physics and materials science.

This PhD scholarship at KU Leuven is part of the CHIRALNANOMAT Doctoral Network (MSCA – Horizon Europe), a multidisciplinary collaboration involving 7 laboratories and 6 companies across 7 European countries. The Quantum Solid-state Physics (QSP) research unit, within the Department of Physics and Astronomy, specializes in experimental research on solid-state systems, focusing on quantum phenomena at atomic and microscopic scales. The project merges physics, chemistry, and biosciences to advance the synthesis and characterization of chiral metal nanoclusters, with applications in catalysis and biosensing. The doctoral candidate will investigate the self-organization of chiral monolayer-protected metal nanoclusters on inert surfaces, examining how annealing conditions, cluster size, and ligand type affect organization. The research includes nonlinear optical characterization to correlate chiral optical properties with structural organization. Training will cover surface preparation using the Langmuir-Blodgett technique, structural analysis via atomic force microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy, electronic characterization with scanning tunneling spectroscopy, and nonlinear optical characterization, particularly second harmonic generation. A secondment will provide theoretical modeling experience. The position offers a stimulating environment at KU Leuven, a leading European university, and includes short research stays at TU Vienna, the Italian National Research Council (CNR, Pisa), and Furukawa Institute of Technology (Budapest). The CHIRALNANOMAT network provides cross-cutting expertise and skills through seminars, workshops, and secondments, preparing candidates for careers in nanoscience and nanotechnology. Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field, strong academic performance, English fluency, and comply with the MSCA mobility rule. The position is fully funded, with salary, social security, and mobility allowance. KU Leuven values diversity and inclusivity, offering support for accessibility and equal opportunity.

This postdoctoral scholarship at KU Leuven's Quantum Solid-state Physics (QSP) research unit offers an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic team investigating the physical and chemical properties of transition metal clusters and hybrid carbon-metal clusters. The QSP unit specializes in experimental research on quantum phenomena in solid-state systems, focusing on the tunability of functional electronic properties such as magnetism, superconductivity, and semiconducting behavior in systems ranging from single-atom defects to nanoscale clusters and heterostructures. The successful candidate will work closely with Professors Peter Lievens and Ewald Janssens, contributing to ongoing projects that explore magnetism, optical properties, and chemical reactivity of hybrid clusters. Key research topics include the interaction of hydrogen with gas-phase carbon-metal clusters and the use of fullerene-transition metal hybrids as catalysts for carbon dioxide reduction. Another major focus is the systematic study of cluster magnetism, particularly how doping Rh, Ho, and Tm clusters with Co and Fe atoms affects their magnetic properties. The postdoc will coordinate daily activities in the gas-phase cluster laboratories, support Master's and PhD students, and develop independent research. Experimental techniques include molecular beam studies using mass spectrometry, in-beam reactivity analysis, infrared and visible light spectroscopy with OPO/OPA tunable lasers, and Stern-Gerlach magnetic deflection experiments. Most work will be conducted in KU Leuven's molecular beam setups, with additional far-infrared spectroscopy experiments at the FELIX free electron laser facility in The Netherlands. The position is fully funded for two years, offering a competitive bursary and access to university infrastructure. Applicants should have a PhD in physics, chemistry, or a related field, with essential experience in high-vacuum technology and molecular beam setups. Skills in laser spectroscopy, cluster sources, ion guiding and trapping, mass spectrometry, and quantum chemical calculations are highly valued. The role requires strong teamwork, communication skills in English, and a passion for research. KU Leuven provides an inclusive and supportive environment, and the position is based in Leuven, a vibrant city near Brussels. The start date is as soon as possible, and the application deadline is November 14, 2025.

A fully funded 4-year PhD scholarship is available at KU Leuven, in collaboration with the University of Antwerp (A-PECS group), to develop next-generation plasmonic photocatalysts for artificial photosynthesis and CO₂ conversion. The project integrates experimental nanotechnology, advanced spectroscopy, and computational modeling to create sustainable solutions for climate change. Research will focus on designing novel catalysts using ultra-small bi- and multi-metallic clusters, precise deposition techniques, and state-of-the-art characterization methods. Theoretical modeling and density functional theory will be used to understand CO₂ photo-reduction mechanisms, with the goal of rational catalyst design. The successful candidate will work across two leading Belgian universities, receive training via the Arenberg Doctoral School, and benefit from a generous tax-free stipend, bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package. Applicants should hold a relevant Master’s degree, have excellent academic records, and be fluent in English. The application deadline is 20 October 2025, and applications are reviewed until filled. Required documents include a CV, cover letter, transcripts, and referee contact details. For more information, candidates can apply online or contact the supervisors directly.

This PhD position at KU Leuven focuses on the nonlinear optical characterization of chiral surfaces, conducted within the Molecular Electronics and Photonics Lab (MEP) of the Department of Chemistry. The successful candidate will join the CHIRALNANOMAT Doctoral Network (MSCA – Horizon Europe), a collaborative European training program in nanoscience and nanotechnology. The research will investigate the nonlinear optical properties of size-selected metal clusters in solution using advanced techniques such as polarization-resolved second and third harmonic scattering and circularly polarized hyper-Rayleigh scattering. A significant part of the project will involve studying chiral surfaces composed of nanostructures, employing coherent second-harmonic generation to analyze surface organization, chirality, and symmetry, complemented by advanced spectroscopic measurements. The position offers a stimulating and diverse research environment at KU Leuven, a leading European university recognized for its research excellence. The CHIRALNANOMAT network provides comprehensive training, including local expert training, network-wide secondments, and a series of seminars, workshops, and schools, ensuring doctoral candidates gain cross-cutting expertise valued in both academia and industry. The candidate will primarily work in Leuven, with short research stays at Technische Universität Wien, University of Geneva, and Invisible Light Labs GmbH for specialized training. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in physics, chemistry, optics, or a related field, demonstrate English proficiency at B2 level or higher, and have strong academic records. Experience in optical setup design, nonlinear optical techniques, and basic knowledge of chemistry and spectroscopy are required; programming skills are advantageous. Candidates must comply with the MSCA mobility rule, meaning they should not have resided or worked in Belgium for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment. The position is fully funded according to MSCA regulations, including salary and benefits. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. The application deadline is November 20, 2025. For more information, contact Prof. Dr. Thierry Verbiest or Prof. Dr. Ewald Janssens.