Steven De Meester

Ghent University invites applications for a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, focusing on advanced polymer recycling and sensing methodologies. The position is based in the Laboratory for Circular Process Engineering (LCPE) on the Kortrijk campus, supervised by Prof. Pieter Nachtergaele and Prof. Steven De Meester. The research group comprises a dynamic team of 22 PhD students, 3 postdocs, and 4 technicians, all dedicated to innovative chemical engineering for the circular economy, with a strong emphasis on pretreatment and downstream processing of waste materials. The doctoral project centers on developing and applying state-of-the-art spectroscopic sensing techniques (such as NIR, Raman, and hyperspectral imaging), combined with machine learning and chemometric modelling, to monitor and control polymer recycling processes. The research aims to address the challenges posed by heterogeneous waste streams and the sensitivity of recycling technologies to contaminants. Collaboration with industrial partners and other LCPE colleagues is integral, ensuring that scientific findings are relevant to real-world waste management and recycling operations. Successful candidates will be expected to publish their research in international peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences. The ultimate goal is to produce a PhD thesis that advances sustainable, circular solutions for the plastics industry. The supervisors, Prof. De Meester and Prof. Nachtergaele, bring extensive industry connections and expertise in waste management, supporting both fundamental and applied research approaches. Applicants must hold a master's degree in chemical engineering, bioscience engineering, materials science, civil engineering, industrial engineering, or equivalent. Degrees in applied physics or chemistry with a strong engineering focus are also considered. Candidates should demonstrate a critical and analytical attitude, initiative, and a genuine interest in scientific research and sustainability. Strong organizational skills, self-motivation, perseverance, and excellent academic writing and oral presentation skills are required. Proficiency in English (written and spoken) is essential. Experience with spectroscopic sensing, chemometric or multivariate data analysis, polymer characterisation, plastic sorting, recycling technologies, laboratory work, experimental design, and programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or R are considered plus points. The fellowship is offered for an initial period of 12 months, extendable up to a maximum of 48 months following positive evaluation. The salary is 100% of the net AAP member salary, determined by family status and seniority, and is tax-free. Ghent University staff enjoy a range of benefits, including training opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers. To apply, send your CV, diploma, motivation letter, and contact details of at least one reference to Prof. Pieter Nachtergaele ([email protected]) before 31 May 2026. File names should follow the format: Type of document_First Name_Last Name.docx. Late applications will not be accepted. For further information, contact Prof. Nachtergaele directly. Ghent University is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.

Ghent University invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position in Green Chemistry and Technology (LCPE) within the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department BW24. The role is based at the Laboratory for Circular Process Engineering (Kortrijk campus), supervised by Professor Steven De Meester. The research group is a vibrant team comprising 22 PhD students, 3 postdocs, and 4 technicians, focusing on advancing chemical engineering for the circular economy, particularly in pretreatment and downstream processing of waste. The postdoc will contribute to projects centered on solvent-based recycling of plastic waste, addressing the challenges posed by heterogeneous waste streams and the sensitivity of recycling technologies to contaminants. The group leverages fundamental science and innovative approaches to improve processes used in waste treatment facilities, with strong industry connections and a deep understanding of the waste management landscape. Applicants must hold a PhD, preferably in bioscience engineering, chemical engineering, or a related discipline. Essential qualifications include a strong interest in sustainability, packaging, and recycling technology, excellent English communication skills, strong writing and presentation abilities, good organizational skills, and high motivation. Experience with quantitative and/or qualitative research is required, and industry networking is considered advantageous. Candidates with foreign diplomas in languages other than Dutch, French, German, or English must provide a translation. The position is offered as a contract of definite duration for 24 months, starting no earlier than July 1, 2026. Remuneration is based on salary scale PD1 to PD4 for doctoral degree holders. Ghent University provides a comprehensive benefits package, including training and education opportunities, 36 days of annual holiday leave, fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers. To apply, candidates must submit their application online via the Ghent University e-recruitment system before the deadline of May 1, 2026. Required documents include a CV and academic transcript (merged as one PDF), cover letter, diploma transcript, and other supporting materials such as reference letters and study results. Applications sent by email will not be considered. For further information about the vacancy, contact Prof. Steven De Meester at [email protected]. For questions regarding the application process, email [email protected]. Ghent University is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, encouraging all qualified candidates to apply.

Ghent University in Belgium is offering multiple fully funded PhD positions across a range of departments and research areas, including Green Chemistry and Technology, Materials, Textiles and Chemical Engineering, Information Technology, Data Analysis and Mathematical Modelling, Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, and Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering. These positions are part of prestigious networks such as the Marie-Curie Doctoral Network SCARPA, which focuses on sustainability and circular economy challenges in the footwear industry, and other cutting-edge research projects in wireless networking, data analysis, and computational biology. Applicants must hold a relevant Master’s degree and meet specific requirements for each position, such as technical skills, language proficiency, and compliance with mobility rules. Funding includes a competitive salary, tax-free fellowship, and comprehensive staff benefits. Application deadlines are primarily October 31, 2025, with some positions closing on December 31, 2025, or September 30, 2025. Interested candidates should follow the application instructions for each position, submitting all required documents before the deadline. Supervisors include leading professors and researchers at Ghent University. For more information, visit the provided links or contact the supervisors directly.