PhD position Biodegradable Polymers

• Hours38 - 40 hr.

• Salary indication€ 2,541 - € 3,247

• Deadline31 Dec 2022

A PhD position is available at the University of Twente (the Netherlands) within the Faculty of Science and Technology. The research project will develop and demonstrate novel biobased and fully biodegradable polymeric materials.

There is a significant need for biodegradable polymers as a part of a new circular strategies in the “plastics age”. However, biodegradable does not essentially mean biodegradable in the desired environment or only under certain conditions. This project will develop new biobased polymers using green organic chemistry with a predefined degradation profile.

The project is based on the molecular understanding of polymeric materials and will be conducted within the Sustainable Polymer Chemistry (SPC) group in the Department of Molecules and Materials of the University of Twente.

Currently, we are looking for a PhD candidate for the project:

"A new road for protection groups: fully biodegradable polymers based on chemically-altered biopolymers"

The candidate will develop and demonstrate novel molecularly defined biobased polymers or chemically altered polymers can be synthesized and processed. Also, biodegradation in different environments will be studied. The candidate must have a background in synthetic Organic Chemistry or synthetic Polymer Chemistry as the project relies on molecular understanding of the polymers. Experience in biodegradation or handling of microorganisms (spores, bacteria) are desired.

Your reaction should include an application/motivation letter, emphasizing your specific interest and motivation, a detailed CV, and an academic transcript of B.Sc. and M.Sc. education. An interview and a scientific presentation will be part of the selection procedure. Please apply via the provided button before 31 december 2022.

For more information about the position, you are encouraged to contact Prof. Frederik Wurm (frederik.wurm@utwente.nl)

The SPC group is part of the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, which offers advanced characterization and fabrication tools on the nanoscale and covers various aspects of nanoscience and technology. The department is equipped with modern, state-of-the-art synthesis facilities including high vacuum lines, glove boxes, etc. and modern equipment for polymer characterization, such as chromatography, spectroscopy. etc.

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.