PhD Candidate/Researcher Renewable and Recyclable Polymer Networks for sustainable applications

For its Academy Technology & Innovation, the research group Circular Plastics in Emmen, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences is looking for suitable candidates as soon as possible for the position of PhD Candidate/Researcher Renewable and Recyclable Polymer Networks for sustainable applications.

Who are we looking for
We are looking for enthusiastic colleagues with a passion for polymer synthesis and knowledge or experience in recycling.

Where will you be working
In the past seventy years, the use of plastics has grown exponentially. Due to their versatile properties, the worldwide application has been increased twentyfold. Plastics contribute to comfort, safety, durability and hygiene. Apart from a multitude of advantages, the large-scale use of plastics also entails disadvantages, such as the spread of plastic litter on land and at sea.
After a short first-use cycle, the majority of the used materials escapes collection systems, generating significant environmental burden to vital natural systems such as the ocean and clogging urban infrastructure. We have to fundamentally rethink the way we make, use and re-use polymeric materials, so that they don’t become a problem in the first place. To do this, we need superior materials, a better basic understanding of materials properties and clever product designs – the core research focus of HyBRIt.
HyBRIt is formed by members of the research group Macromolecular Chemistry & New Polymeric Materials, part of the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials at the University of Groningen, and the research group Circular Plastics at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences. It is the first hybrid research group between a (fundamental) university (WO, University of Groningen) and a university of applied sciences (HBO, NHL Stenden) in the Netherlands.
Unique in its kind, HyBRIt shares staff and facilities from both knowledge institutions. Together they form the catalyst of knowledge in the field of green chemistry and bioplastics in Drenthe, Groningen and Friesland.

What will you be doing
The research group focuses on enhancing the circularity of thermoset polymers to facilitate the transition towards a future-proof plastics economy. Through innovative approaches, including the use of biomass as feedstock and the development of safe and scalable processes, the group aims to synthesize biobased building blocks. These building blocks will be utilized in designing thermoset photopolymers with dynamic bonds, enabling enhanced (re)processability and recyclability. Collaboration with network partners will help explore the market potential of these sustainable materials, paving the way for eco-friendly solutions in the manufacturing industry. You will closely collaborate with a consortium that consists of academic and industrial partners.
You will be appointed at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, in the research group Circular Plastics, under supervision of Dr. Vincent Voet and Dr. Rudy Folkersma. The PhD student will also work at University of Groningen, in the group of Prof. dr. Katja Loos, which focusses on macromolecular chemistry and new polymeric materials. You will operate from the laboratories at NHL Stenden (Emmen, NL) and University of Groningen (Groningen, NL). The PhD, that normally takes four years for completion, when successful, will be granted from University of Groningen.

Profile

• holds a MSc degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related fields;
• has skills in polymer synthesis and recycling; knowledge or experience in additive manufacturing (3D printing) is a pro;
• has interest in the material characterization of polymeric networks;
• has a strong interest to investigate structure-property relationships of the synthesized polymers;
• is open to scale up monomers/polymers for application tests by consortium members and companies in the advisory board;
• aims at helping to create ready-to-market products from the insights gained during the PhD study – in balance with profound scientific publishing in peer review journals;
• likes to interact with academic and industrial partners;
• is result driven, inventive, creative, counts with potential impact, works ‘accountable’ and works with ownership;
• masters scientific English for speaking, reading, and writing.

What we offer
The employment regards the position phd candidate/researcher. The salary consists of, dependent on age and experience, a minimum of € 3.370,00 and a maximum of € 5.019,73 (level 10 of the Collective Labour Agreement for Universities of Applied Sciences) gross per month for a fulltime position, exclusive of 8% holiday benefits and an 8.3% year-end bonus. The agreement will initially be entered into for the duration of 4 year.

About NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
Our university of applied sciences is firmly rooted in the northern part of the Netherlands where we are based, while at the same time maintaining a strong international focus. At all our campuses and with our international network, we are always looking for new ways to successfully integrate education, research and the latest developments in the professional world. Our students, lecturers and researchers work together in small teams on real-life assignments and share their innovative ideas in practice. Our courses incorporate all the latest trends and developments in the relevant sectors and industries – at a local, national and an international level.
The future calls for enterprising and resourceful professionals who know how to translate their knowledge into innovative solutions and who have the vision and courage needed to look beyond their own professional field.
That is the strength of NHL Stenden: in a rapidly changing world, our people make the impossible possible.

Response
Are you the enthusiastic and inspiring colleague that we are looking for? Please send your motivation and curriculum vitae in one document with the application button to the attention of Dr. Vincent Voet, indicating subject 3290 ATI

Procedure
You may respond until June 16. Job interviews will take place on June 21 in the morning.
This vacancy is posted internally and externally at the same time, in case of equal suitability, internal candidates will have priority.

Questions?
For content inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Vincent Voet, Lector Circular Plastics or Dr. Katja Loos, professor Polymer Chemistry.
Vincent Voet: vincent.voet@nhlstenden.com
Katja Loos: k.u.loos@rug.nl

Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

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