Postdoctoral Scholarship in Chemical Engineering
University of Antwerp
Belgium

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 45 people. ELCAT's main research focus is on electrochemistry, which can be subdivided in three main topics, which are interrelated: (i) electrocatalysis, (ii) electrosynthesis and (iii) electrochemical reactor engineering. The core research activities are related to the development of state-of-the-art electrochemical systems and materials, with a view towards large-scale industrial development in the field of industrial electrification. 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 redox flow batteries.

Position

• You will carry out high-quality scientific research in the field of redox flow batteries. More specifically, you will be responsible for studying the effect of hydrodynamics and dynamic flow regimes in redox flow batteries, develop accelerated degradation tests for redox flow batteries, and design, develop and test 3D electrodes. Your task is to conduct research on these topics, assist in supervising ongoing research projects and guide PhD students working within this field.
• You will report on the results of your research and produce academic publications.
• You will assist in overviewing and maintaining the redox flow battery lab.
• You will assist in the supervision of PhD students and other team members.
• You will assist in ongoing research projects and the activities of the research group.
• You will develop new research projects and you will compete for externally funded research grants in which you will contribute to attracting national and international research funding.
• 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 (Materials) Engineering, Applied Engineering, Chemistry or equivalent.
• You have relevant (international) experience in the field of redox flow batteries and are an expert in electrochemical engineering.
• You have strong experience in experimental research on redox flow batteries. Experience in CFD modelling (OpenFoam) is an added value.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• 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 and have preferably obtained a C1 level of 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.
• Recommendation letters are 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 conduct 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 December 17^th 2024. Click on the 'Apply' button, complete the online application form and be sure to include the following attachments: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.
  • a motivation letter
  • your academic CV
• 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 professor Jonas Hereijgers (Hereijgers@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.