Postdoctoral scholarship holder electrochemical engineering

Let’s shape the future - University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20 000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape. 

As an experienced researcher, you will join the ELCAT research group, currently employing around 30 people. ELCAT's main research focus is on electrochemistry. The core research activities are related to the development of state-of-the-art electrochemical reactors and catalysts, with a view towards large-scale industrial development in the field of industrial electrification, in a green and sustainable way to ultimately replace the traditional chemical processes. The research is largely covered by 5 key activities: (1) electrochemical CO2 conversion; (2) green hydrogen production; (3) redox-flow batteries; (4) power-to-chemicals and (5) electrochemical reactor engineering.

The research group ELCAT in the Faculty of Applied Engineering is looking for a full-time (100%) postdoctoral scholarship holder in the field of electrochemical engineering.  

Position

• You will carry out high-quality scientific research in the research fields of electrocatalysis, electrosynthesis and electrochemical reactor technology. More specifically, you will be responsible for the successful completion of the research project with Agfa on water electrolysis, where ELCAT’s main task is to design, develop and test an electrolyzer for the production of hydrogen. Your task is to help set up this research branch within ELCAT and guide PhD students working within this field.
• You will develop new research projects according to the strategic plan of the research group ELCAT (www.uantwerp.be/elcat) and you compete for externally funded research grants.
• You will report on the results of your research and produce academic publications.
• You will assist in ongoing research projects and the activities of the research group.
• You will contribute to attracting national and international research funding.
• You will assist in the supervision of PhD students and other team members.
• If necessary, you will fulfil a limited number of teaching activities.
• You will participate in the provision of academic services: you will represent the research group both internally and externally.

Profile

• You hold a PhD in (Bioscience) Engineering, Applied Engineering or equivalent (or you will have obtained it by the time you start work).
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies. You have relevant research experience in the field of electrocatalysis and/or electrochemical reactors. Knowledge of CO₂ capture/conversion and/or nitrate/nitrogen conversion is an added value.
• Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
• You can speak and write fluently in English.
• You are able to carry out your work and achieve your objectives with a high degree of independence.
• You can present excellent study and research results.
• You have knowledge of national and international fundraising. Experience in writing project proposals is an asset.
• Experience in supervising PhD and/or masters students is an added value.

What we offer

• We offer a full-time appointment as a postdoctoral scholarship holder for a period of 12 months, renewable after positive evaluation;
• The planned start date is as soon as possible.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for postdoctoral scholarship holders on the pay scales for contract research staff (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP).
• You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform until May 7^th2024. Click on the 'Apply' button, complete the online application form and be sure to include the following attachments: a motivation letter, your academic CV.
• The selection committee will review all of the applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision has been made, we will inform you about the next steps in the selection procedure.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact dr. Nick Daems and/or professor Tom Breugelmans (elcat@uantwerpen.be).

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.