Doctoral scholarship holders in plasma chemistry University of Antwerp in Belgium

The University of Antwerp is recruiting one full-time doctoral scholarship holder in plasma chemistry within the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, at the PLASMANT research group. The project is supervised by Prof. Anton Nikiforov and focuses on non-thermal plasma for the electrification of the chemical industry, with a particular emphasis on energy-efficient nitrogen fixation.

The PhD project will investigate activation of the N≡N triple bond in non-equilibrium pulsed plasmas and aims to develop a pulsed plasma-chemical reactor operating at 0.5 to 3 bar. The research combines experimental plasma chemistry with in-situ diagnostics, including time-resolved UV absorption spectroscopy and active laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy. The group works on plasmas for sustainable chemistry, electrification, and medical applications, and has expertise in a range of plasma reactors, plasma chemistry modelling, reactor design, and plasma-catalyst interactions.

The doctoral researcher will prepare and defend a PhD thesis, publish scientific articles, present at conferences, and collaborate with researchers in other groups and universities. The role also includes a limited number of teaching, research, and service support tasks for the Department of Chemistry.

Applicants should have, or be about to obtain, an academic Master’s degree in Chemistry, Bioengineering, Applied Sciences (Engineering), or Civil Engineering, with specialization in chemistry. Strong academic results are expected, together with fluency in English and Dutch and a profile aligned with the University of Antwerp’s research and teaching vision. The department is especially interested in candidates who are motivated to pursue an external fellowship, such as an FWO fellowship in 2027.

The scholarship is initially offered for one year, with the intention to seek additional funding together with the supervisor. The monthly stipend is based on the BAP pay scales for contract research staff. Additional benefits include access to the Antwerp Doctoral School, courses and educational credit, ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, and commuting support.

Applications must be submitted via the University of Antwerp online application platform by 31 August 2026 (midnight Brussels time). Applicants should include a motivation letter, academic CV, a signed letter of acceptance from the UAntwerp promotor, and a statement confirming willingness to seek additional funding. For questions about the position, contact [email protected]; for application-related questions, contact [email protected].