Postdoctoral Researcher in Reactive Extrusion of Polymers with a Focus on Bio-based Polymers
Ghent University
is offering a
postdoctoral researcher
position in the field of
reactive extrusion of polymers
, with a particular focus on
bio-based polymers and polyesters
. The appointment is based in the
Faculty of Engineering and Architecture
, within
EA11 - Materialen, Textiel en Chemische Proceskunde
, Belgium.
The project combines
experimental polymer characterization
and
model-based process research
to better control molecular structure, branching, and cross-linking in polymer production. Research tasks include reactive processing by extrusion, characterization using
GPC, soluble-insoluble fraction analysis, rheology, DSC, TGA, FTIR
, and mechanical testing, as well as theoretical work on polymer crystallinity using advanced DSC methods and crystallization models such as
Avrami
. The role also includes model development for reactive extrusion using approaches such as
MoM, kMC, CFD
, or similar computational methods.
The post is a
full-time (100%)
position for
1 year
, with a contract of limited duration and remuneration according to the
PD1 to PD4
salary scale. The position requires a
PhD
in Materials Engineering Technology or Science. Relevant experience is expected in reactive extrusion and other melt processing techniques, polymer physics and chemistry, especially with
bio-based/natural polymers
and
polyesters
, plus practical experience with the listed characterization techniques and kinetic modelling in
Python, MATLAB, Fortran, or C
. Strong English communication skills are required, and applicants should already be in Belgium or be able to remain there for the research period.
The application deadline is
28 August 2026
at
23:59 Brussels time
. Applications must be submitted online and should include a CV, cover letter, copy of the PhD diploma, and a 1–2 page sample of scientific writing. For informal enquiries, contact
Prof. Mariya Edeleva
at
[email protected]
.
