This 4-year PhD scholarship, funded by the Flemish Research Foundation (FWO), offers an exciting opportunity to join KU Leuven and the University of Antwerp (A-PECS group) to develop cutting-edge plasmonic photocatalysts for artificial photosynthesis and CO₂ conversion. The project integrates experimental nanotechnology, spectroscopy, and computational modelling.
🔍 Job Details
| Title | PhD Scholarship – Plasmonic Photocatalysts for CO₂ Conversion |
|---|---|
| Organisation | KU Leuven (with collaboration at University of Antwerp – A-PECS group) |
| Research Fields | Chemistry (Heterogeneous Catalysis, Solar Chemistry, Computational Chemistry), Materials Science, Nanotechnology, Physics (Surface & Solid-State Physics), Chemical Engineering |
| Researcher Profile | First Stage Researcher (R1) |
| Country | Belgium |
| Work Location | Leuven & Antwerp (50 km apart, direct train connection) |
| Application Deadline | 20 October 2025 (23:59 UTC) |
| Start Date | 1 October 2025 (Autumn 2025 preferred) |
| Duration | 4 years (1-year initial bursary, renewable upon progress) |
| Type of Contract | Temporary, Full-time |
| Reference Number | BAP-2025-541 |
| Funding | Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) |
| Salary & Benefits | Generous tax-free bursary (equivalent to research assistant salary), holiday bonus, end-of-year bonus, non-pay benefits package |
Research Context
Artificial photosynthesis is a sustainable solution to climate change, aiming to convert CO₂ into valuable chemicals (CO, methanol, ethanol) using solar energy. Achieving this requires next-generation photocatalysts capable of efficient CO₂ activation.
Project Overview
This collaborative project between KU Leuven (Quantum Solid State Physics group) and University of Antwerp (A-PECS group) focuses on:
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Designing novel plasmonic photocatalysts based on ultra-small bi- and multi-metallic clusters.
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Using cluster beam deposition on TiO₂ nanotubes for precise size and composition control.
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Characterizing catalysts with electron microscopy, XPS, XANES, EXAFS, Raman, and DRIFTS.
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Employing theoretical modelling & density functional theory (DFT) to understand CO₂ photo-reduction mechanisms.
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Correlating theoretical insights with experimental performance for rational catalyst design.
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate should:
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Hold a Master’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Experimental Physics, or related fields.
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Have excellent academic results (Bachelor & Master).
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Demonstrate interest or experience in surface science, catalysis, photocatalysis, or electrochemistry.
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Be fluent in English (written & spoken).
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Be motivated, hardworking, and willing to work interdisciplinarily across two universities.
Benefits
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4-year fully funded FWO scholarship.
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Tax-free stipend, equivalent to research assistant salary.
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Holiday and end-of-year bonuses.
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Work across two world-class research universities.
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Training via the Arenberg Doctoral School.
Application Instructions
Required documents:
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CV with education and academic achievements.
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Cover letter with motivation & research interests.
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Copies of transcripts (Bachelor + Master).
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Contact details of 2 referees.
Deadline: 20 October 2025 (applications reviewed until filled).
Where to Apply:
➡️ Online: KU Leuven Job Portal
➡️ Contact:
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Mr. Didier Grandjean (📞 +32 16 32 28 36 | ✉️ [email protected])
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Prof. Dr. Ewald Janssens (📞 +32 16 32 72 07 | ✉️ [email protected])
🔗 Reference Links
⚠️ Disclaimer
The scholarship is subject to FWO regulations and annual progress reviews. An initial 1-year bursary will be offered, renewable upon satisfactory progress.
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