We seek a talented and ambitious postdoctoral researcher for a challenging research project on the border between synthetic organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, catalysis and responsive materials. The postdoc position is part of a larger project aiming at the use of responsive catalysts as a way to introduce response in organic materials. The postdoctoral position is concerned with the design and synthesis of new polymer materials that can interact with these responsive catalysts. A major part of the project will focus on polymer synthesis and characterization as well as material properties.

The project is part of an ERC Consolidator project supervised by Dr. Rienk Eelkema. The postdoctoral fellow will be part of a larger team of up to 6 PhDs and postdocs working on the ERC project. Most of the work will be performed in the Advanced Soft Matter section at the Department of Chemical Engineering of Delft University of Technology. Some aspects will be carried out in collaborations both within and outside the Department or the university.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in synthetic organic chemistry and polymer synthesis. You must have practical skills in multi-step organic synthesis, the ability to analyze and optimize reaction processes, and in polymer synthesis and characterization. Desirable practical experience includes (a) NMR, (prep-)HPLC, MS, GPC (b) UV-VIS, fluorescence spectroscopy. IR (c) chromatography, polymer purification. It is essential that you are able to demonstrate competence in these areas, as judged by publications (or papers in press) in high quality peer reviewed journals. Very good spoken and written English is mandatory.  

Fixed-term contract: 3 years.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Rienk Eelkema, Associate Professor, phone: +31 15 2781035, e-mail: R.Eelkema@tudelft.nl. For more information about the selection procedure, please contact Ms. Veby Agus, Management Assistant, e-mail: V.A.Agus@tudelft.nl.

To apply, please e-mail a detailed CV, a list of references and a motivation letter by 5 July 2018 to Ms. Veby Agus, e-mail: V.A.Agus@tudelft.nl.
When applying for this position, please refer to vacancy number TNWCE18-039.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Applied Sciences

The Faculty of Applied Sciences is the largest faculty of TU Delft, with around 550 scientists, a support staff of 250 and 1,800 students. The faculty conducts fundamental, application-oriented research and offers scientific education at the bachelor, master and doctoral levels. The faculty is active in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Applied Physics.

The Department of Chemical Engineering (https:\\cheme.tudelft.nl) promotes the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge in chemistry and chemical engineering, with a focus on materials for energy and health applications. We aspire to improve the quality of life in a sustainable society through discovery and innovation, the quality of life of our graduates through inspiration and teaching, and the quality of life of our peers through collaboration and exchange. With a proud heritage in chemical engineering, the department seeks to break new ground in areas where molecular understanding and engineering design meet.

The Advanced Soft Matter (ASM) research group is focused on the development and characterisation of new, functional molecules, polymer and soft molecular and polymer materials. The Eekema Lab is concerned with the design, synthesis, characterization and application of new molecular materials. We have a special focus on using in situ chemical reactivity to control the assembly of dynamic materials and the stability of polymers, to make materials that can respond to changes in their environment by moving, or changing color, shape or rigidity, or materials that exist outside of chemical equilibrium and can thus carry out special functions.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/faculty-of-applied-sciences