University of Antwerp Doctoral Scholarship

The University of Antwerp invites applications for a full-time doctoral scholarship in pavement engineering and materials science, as part of the trilateral international BIOBIT project. The position is based within the Sustainable Pavement and Asphalt Research (SuPAR) group in the Department of Construction Engineering, Faculty of Applied Engineering. The university is a dynamic, forward-thinking institution with a strong commitment to pioneering scientific research and academic excellence.

The successful candidate will prepare and defend a PhD thesis focused on alternative paving materials, specifically investigating the replacement of bitumen with bio-materials. The research will employ multi-performance compatibility analysis using chemical, rheological, and thermoanalytical techniques, including Differential Scanning Calorimetry, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, and Dynamic Shear Rheometer. The project is part of the ongoing international BIOBIT research collaboration, and research stays abroad are foreseen.

Responsibilities include developing a research plan in consultation with supervisors, conducting high-quality research, reporting progress to supervisors and committees, presenting findings at scientific conferences, and aiming for publication in scientific venues. The candidate will also contribute to existing research projects and support tasks related to teaching and research management within SuPAR.

Applicants must hold a master's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Civil Engineering, or related disciplines by the start date. Evidence of excellent academic performance is required. Candidates should demonstrate research qualities aligned with university policies, including attention to quality, integrity, creativity, and cooperation. Fluency in English (spoken and written) is essential; Dutch language skills are advantageous. Experience with construction materials, bitumen, and/or bio-based materials is recommended. Prior experience with thermoanalytical, chemical, and rheological assessment techniques is desirable.

The scholarship is offered for two years, with the possibility of renewal for another two years following a positive evaluation. The monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to university rates. Doctoral researchers have access to a wide range of courses and educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School. The planned start date is 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Most work will be conducted at Campus Groenenborger in a dynamic and stimulating environment.

To apply, candidates must submit an online application via the University of Antwerp’s job application platform by 11 June 2026. Required attachments include a motivation letter (max 1 page), academic CV (max 2 pages), and a reference letter signed by a mentor, supervisor, or professor (max 1 page). The selection committee will review applications after the deadline and notify candidates of next steps. For questions about the application process, contact [email protected]. For job-related inquiries, contact Dr. Christina Makoundou, co-PI of the BIOBIT project, at [email protected].

The University of Antwerp is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities, and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The institution has received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award and offers a family-friendly, sustainable working environment.