A Safe and Biobased Antimicrobial, Antifungal and Antiviral Nanocoating Platform

27 Jan 2024
Job Information

Organisation/Company

KU Leuven

Research Field

Biological sciences » Biological engineering

Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)

Country

Belgium

Application Deadline

29 Feb 2024 - 00:00 (UTC)

Type of Contract

Temporary

Job Status

Negotiable

Hours Per Week

hours/week

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

HE

Reference Number

BAP-2024-45

Marie Curie Grant Agreement Number

101057992

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

Human pathogens can persist on textiles and high-traffic surfaces for hours, days or even longer when protected in biofilms, increasing risk of infection spreading. Conventional cleaning has no lasting effect as contamination can reoccur almost immediately. Available antimicrobial coatings are based mainly on the release of silver ions and other biocides that present risks for resistance development and environmental damage. Inorganic nanoparticles are also a concern for human health.

Nanocellulose is a versatile nanomaterial obtained from wood pulp or biotechnological methods, which has excellent physical properties for coatings, enabling controllable and standardised application of antimicrobial functionalities. In Triple-A-COAT the 3 forms of nanocellulose will be augmented for antimicrobial/antiviral activity through grafting/ adsorption of novel, resistance-proof compounds with excellent activities against bacteria, fungi and/or viruses, and nanopatterning to create bio-inspired antimicrobial surfaces. Spray coating and thin film applications will be developed, optimising adherence to plastic, metal, textiles and glass. The most effective coatings will be evaluated for antimicrobial/ antiviral activity, durability and non-toxicity using ISO standard tests, and in a simulation of a bus environment over 6 months to reach TRL6. A life cycle assessment of the platform will also be completed.

The project consortium involves companies, academic and SME partners with leading expertise in novel antimicrobial and antiviral technology, nanocellulose production and functionalisation, coatings development and characterisation, as well as a bus manufacturer and an external User Committee. Within 5-10 years after the end of the project, the results will be commercialized for impact in the transportation and healthcare sectors, contributing to the better control of infectious disease, and boosting the competitiveness and research leadership of EU industry including SMEs.

Requirements

Research Field

Biological sciences

Education Level

Master Degree or equivalent

Languages

ENGLISH

Level

Good

Research Field

Biological sciences

Years of Research Experience

None

Additional Information
Benefits

- A full-time 4-year doctoral position in a young dynamic and stimulating interdisciplinary research group to conduct research towards a PhD at an internationally renowned research university.

- An attractive fully funded salary for 4-years, including a number of additional advantages such as hospitalization insurance, eco-vouchers, reimbursement for commuting by public transport, inexpensive meals, KU Leuven bicycle, etc..

- The opportunity to develop scientific and personal skills. You will be embedded in a work environment with expertise from various backgrounds. Moreover, you will be supervised by well-trained scientists and receive thorough training in conducting research, presentations and writing. Ample networking opportunities will be offered through participation in conferences, workshops and collaboration with local and international research groups.

- A stay in a vibrant environment in the hearth of Europe. Leuven is an attractive European university city with a rich history and a lively atmosphere, for centuries a natural home for researchers and their families; the city was even awarded the title of European capital of innovation 2020 by the European Commission. English is very widely spoken in the city and its surroundings. Public transport is also well organized and widely available (https://www.leuven.be/ ).

Eligibility criteria

- We are looking for a motivated researcher who is a holder of a university degree.

- Candidate should have a particular interest in biomaterial and microbiology research.

- Candidate should be passionate about research with a creative mind-set and enthusiasm to take initiatives to explore innovative ideas.

- Candidate should have good communication skills in written and spoken English.

- Candidate is expected to conduct the project towards a PhD degree in a 3-year time period (with potential extension to a 4-year period).

Selection process

For more information, please contact Prof. Hans Steenackers via email: [email protected]

Interviews will take place in February/March 2024. Intended project start date:  March 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

An application requires a written solicitation, extended CV, contact information for three references and transcripts of academic records. English Proficiency Certificate might be needed if you have not obtained a previous diploma in a program taught in English.

The selection will be based on the comparison of the submitted applications, followed by an interview with the pre-selected candidates.

You can apply for this job no later than February 29th 2024 via the online application tool.

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at [email protected] .

You can apply for this job no later than 29/02/2024 via the online application tool

Work Location(s)

Number of offers available

1

Company/Institute

KU Leuven

Country

Belgium

State/Province

Vlaams Brabant

City

Leuven

Postal Code

3000

Street

Leuven

Geofield

Where to apply

Website

https://easyapply.jobs/r/yjsQoQy21eimuy44kbI3

Contact

State/Province

Leuven

City

Vlaams Brabant

Street

Leuven

Postal Code

3000

STATUS: EXPIRED