Apply for a fully funded PhD in Sustainable Organic Chemistry at the University of Antwerp, Belgium. Focus on organic synthesis and catalysis using bio-renewable resources. Deadline: August 31, 2025.
🌿 Fully Funded PhD Position in Sustainable Organic Chemistry (Organic Synthesis/Catalysis) at the University of Antwerp – Belgium | Apply by August 31, 2025
Are you passionate about organic synthesis, catalysis, and the future of sustainable chemistry? The University of Antwerp, a leading research institution in Europe, is inviting highly motivated candidates to apply for a PhD position in Sustainable Organic Chemistry within the prestigious Maes Group.
This fully funded opportunity is embedded within a cutting-edge interdisciplinary research project focused on green chemistry, bio-renewable resources, and catalytic transformations. If you hold a Master’s degree in chemistry or bioscience engineering (with a specialization in chemistry), this is a unique chance to develop a strong academic career in one of Europe’s most research-active environments.
🧪 About the PhD Position
Position: PhD Student in Sustainable Organic Chemistry
Focus Areas: Organic Synthesis, Catalysis, Green Chemistry
Location: University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Flanders, Belgium
Application Deadline: August 31, 2025
Start Date: September/October 2025
Funding: Fully Funded
🔬 Research Focus: Bio-Renewable Platform Molecules & Catalysis
This PhD project will revolve around the development of novel catalytic methodologies that enable the transformation of bio-renewable platform molecules into valuable building blocks for the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Key Goals:
- Design and synthesis of novel catalysts using carbon-based surfaces (e.g., graphene, functionalized carbon materials).
- Application of these catalysts in organic transformations such as C-C and C-N coupling reactions.
- Deep exploration of surface chemistry, nanoscale modeling, and heterogeneous catalysis in collaboration with KULeuven.
The research is part of the interuniversity iBOF project titled “Engineered carbon surfaces for sustainable catalysis”, bringing together leading expertise from the University of Antwerp and KULeuven.
🏛️ About the University of Antwerp
The University of Antwerp is one of Belgium’s most dynamic academic institutions, known for its high-impact research, innovation in teaching, and commitment to sustainability and societal advancement.
- QS World Ranking (2025): Among top 250 globally
- Research Strength: Home to 30+ research centres
- Focus Areas: Chemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Engineering, Environmental Science
- Special Recognition: Member of YERUN (Young European Research Universities Network)
The Maes Group at the Department of Chemistry is internationally recognized for its work in organic synthesis, green chemistry, and catalytic technologies.
👨🔬 Your Role and Responsibilities
As a PhD candidate in the Maes Group, you will:
- Perform organic synthetic reactions independently with high precision.
- Develop and characterize novel carbon-surface-based catalysts.
- Optimize catalytic protocols for transforming renewable biomass-derived molecules.
- Conduct analysis using NMR, MS, HPLC, GC, and IR spectroscopy.
- Collaborate closely with KULeuven researchers for nanoscale modeling and surface characterization.
- Present your research findings at international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
- Assist in mentoring junior students and supporting lab activities when required.
🎓 Required Qualifications
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
Essential:
- Master’s degree in Chemistry or Bioscience Engineering (Chemistry).
- Solid theoretical foundation in organic synthesis and catalysis.
- Laboratory experience in:
- Organic reactions and techniques
- Spectroscopy (NMR, IR, MS)
- Chromatography (HPLC, GC)
- Purification techniques (e.g., column chromatography)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Desirable:
- Previous experience in carbon-based materials or heterogeneous catalysis.
- Interest in multidisciplinary collaboration.
- Strong scientific writing and data interpretation skills.
- Willingness to travel regularly (e.g., for collaboration with KULeuven).
🌍 Why Pursue a PhD in Belgium?
Belgium is a hub for world-class research in life sciences, chemistry, and green technologies. As a PhD student in Belgium, you benefit from:
- No tuition fees for PhD programs at most universities.
- Generous stipends/salaries and benefits (social security, pension, insurance).
- Access to European research funding (Horizon Europe, Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions).
- A multilingual, multicultural academic environment.
- Proximity to leading research institutions across Germany, France, and the Netherlands.
🗂️ Application Procedure
Interested candidates must submit a complete application before August 31st, 2025.
Required Documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation Letter outlining research interests and fit for the project
- Contact details of at least one previous supervisor or reference
- For Master’s and Erasmus applicants: Include transcript of academic records
Submission Email:
Send your full application package to
📧 VacancyORSY@uantwerpen.be
Subject Line: Application PhD iBOF
⚠️ Only applications with all requested information will be considered.
🧑🏫 About the Maes Group
Prof. Dr. Bert U.W. Maes, a leading expert in organic synthesis and catalysis, leads this vibrant research group. The Maes Group is affiliated with:
- Division of Organic Synthesis (ORSY)
- Centre of Excellence CASCH
- Valorization Platform InSusChem
The lab focuses on:
- Development of sustainable synthetic methodologies
- Use of biomass-derived materials as chemical feedstocks
- Innovative catalyst systems including heterogeneous and metal-free catalysis
📍 Location: Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerpen, Belgium
📞 Phone: +32 3 265 32 05
🌐 Group Website
📅 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | August 31, 2025 |
| Notification of Interview (Expected) | Mid-September 2025 |
| Program Start Date | September/October 2025 |
📌 This fully funded PhD position in Sustainable Organic Chemistry at the University of Antwerp is a gateway to a thriving academic and research career in one of Europe’s innovation hubs. With hands-on training in modern catalysis, collaboration with top-tier institutions like KULeuven, and access to world-class facilities, this program offers a comprehensive platform for ambitious young chemists ready to impact the future of green and sustainable science.
If you’re ready to dive into organic synthesis, carbon surface chemistry, and bio-renewable transformations, submit your application before August 31, 2025, and take the next leap in your academic journey.
🔗 Official Website for More Information:
👉 Maes Group – University of Antwerp
