PhD position and Postdoc position Renewable monomer & polymer synthesis

Renewable monomer and polymer synthesis and application as well as recycling innovation

This research initiative aims to develop innovative biopolymers with superior biodegradability and optimal thermal and mechanical attributes for various technical applications. By systematically varying critical parameters, we seek to engineer the chemical structure of biopolymers, leveraging insights from related research. This involves adjusting factors such as the ratio of aromatic to aliphatic monomers, the ester-to-amide ratio, and the methyl-to-ester ratio in the backbone. The synthesized biopolymers will be comprehensively characterized to understand their chemical and physical properties, including utilizing techniques such as NMR, GPC, DSC, and TGA. Furthermore, investigations into effective depolymerization strategies for chemically recycling these biopolymers as well as mechanical recycling will be conducted, contributing to the development of sustainable materials for the future.

By joining this project, you will be at the forefront of cutting-edge research, working collaboratively with leading experts and organizations to shape the future of sustainable materials.

Organisation
The University of Groningen is a research university with a global outlook, deeply rooted in Groningen, City of Talent. Quality has been our top priority for over four hundred years, and with success: the University is currently in or around the top 100 on several influential ranking lists.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) is the largest faculty within the University. We offer exclusive education and research in a wide range of science and engineering disciplines, from classical disciplines such as mathematics, astronomy and mechanical engineering, to interdisciplinary fields such as artificial intelligence, pharmacy and nanoscience. Our community has an open and informal character with students and staff from around the world.

Research environment
The research will be conducted in the Macromolecular Chemistry and New Polymeric Materials group at the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Katja Loos, in close collaboration with NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences.

- for PhD position - you hold an MSc degree (or will graduate before appointment date) in Macromolecular Chemistry, Chemistry, Materials Science, or similar subjects
- for Postdoctoral Researcher position - you hold an PhDdegree (or will graduate before appointment date) in Macromolecular Chemistry, Chemistry, Materials Science, or similar subjects
- excellent skills in the domains of synthetic polymer or organic chemistry and characterization and synthesis of polymers are prerequisites
- experience in physical chemistry and chemical engineering are an advantage
- enthusiasm for top-quality research and strong proficiency in both spoken and written English are a must
- cross-cultural sensitivity and strong communication skills
- for Postdoctoral Researcher position - the ability to work independently and with colleagues, to take the lead in coordination and providing new ideas, interest in project management and to guide students is an advantage.

For the PhD position
The University offers you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

- a salary of € 2,770 gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 3,539 gross per month in the final year for a full-time working week
- a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% end-of-the-year allowance
- a full-time position (1.0 FTE). The successful candidate will be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years. Prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that a successful completion of the PhD thesis within the next three years is to be expected. A PhD training programme is part of the agreement, and the successful candidate will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Science and Engineering.

The intended PhD starting date is as soon as possible

For the Postdoctoral Researcher position
The University offers you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

- a salary of € 3,877 gross per month, up to a maximum of € 5,090 gross per month for a full-time working week, depending on your relevant work experience
- a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% end-of-the-year allowance
- a full-time position (1.0 FTE).