PhD position in the Department of Molecules and Materials on the Synthesis of Sustainable and Reversible Polymer Coatings (P...

The SusInkCoat project, a collaborative effort between public and private partners, is tackling the environmental challenges posed by traditional plastics in coatings and inks. Recognizing the progress made in sustainable plastics for larger applications, SusInkCoat aims to bridge the gap for thin films by developing innovative, eco-friendly polymers and additives. These materials will be "switchable and adaptive," offering enhanced performance and a reduced environmental footprint. The project focuses on improving the entire lifecycle of these materials, from durability and functionality to recyclability. Furthermore, SusInkCoat is committed to training a new generation of chemical developers who prioritize sustainability and circularity as core values. This comprehensive approach addresses the key drawbacks of conventional plastics: high-energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions during production, reliance on non-sustainable materials, poor decomposition, and low recycling rates. (https://www.nwo.nl/en/researchprogrammes/perspectief/perspectief-grants/sustainable-inks-and-coatings-developing-switchable-and-adaptive-functional-polymers-and-additives-for-low-environmental-footprint-susinkcoat)

Join a cutting-edge research project at the University of Twente and help revolutionize sustainable coatings!

As a PhD student within the SusInkCoat consortium, you'll be at the forefront of developing adaptive coatings with a low environmental footprint. You'll leverage your expertise in organic and polymer chemistry to synthesize innovative polymers with switchable molecular functions, enabling the recyclability of these coatings. This involves introducing dynamic bonds and studying their behavior to optimize coating properties.

What sets this opportunity apart:

Real-world impact: Collaborate closely with academic and industrial partners, upscaling your synthesized materials for real-world testing and fine-tuning your work based on industry feedback. World-class facilities: Conduct your research at the University of Twente, a vibrant campus in the east of the Netherlands equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Expert guidance: Work alongside renowned experts Prof.dr. Frederik Wurm and Prof.dr. Christian Nijhuis in the Sustainable Polymer Chemistry and Hybrid Materials for Opto-electronics group within the Department of Molecules and Materials.

This is your chance to contribute to a more sustainable future while advancing your research career at a leading European university.

Join us in shaping the future of sustainable materials!

Are you interested? Send your application before March 31, 2025 via the provided button and should include:

• Personal motivation letter, emphasizing your specific interest and motivation.
• A detailed CV.
• One reference from your former supervisor (written recommendation) with contact details.
• Academic transcript of BSc. and MSc. education.

An interview and a scientific presentation will be a part of the selection procedure. Applications submitted by means other than the indicated here will not be considered. We reserve the right to speak only to selected candidates.

For more information or questions about the position, please contact Prof.dr. Christan Nijhuis of Prof.dr. Frederik Wurm via: https://www.utwente.nl/en/tnw/mm/