• Synthesize novel, heat-stable solid catalysts designed convert low-value waste streams to high-value, sustainable, and circular biomaterials.
• Conduct experiments flow/batch reactors for the conversion of waste streams.
• Characterize materials using different techniques, and link properties to performance.
• Optimize reaction conditions and explore scale-up potential.
• Document experiments systematically, publish results in relevant and reputed journals, and present findings at conferences.
• Collaborate with the Catalysis Engineering Group members and interdisciplinary teams/consortium partners to advance project goals.
• Help with educational and organisational activities, as needed by the group/institute.
• Participate in consortium meetings, workshops and meetings related to the project.
• Be up-to-date with the recent developments in the field by consulting with literature.
• Take own initiatives to plan the experiments creatively and safely as well as to meet the deadlines.

• Masters degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related fields.
• Strong passion for scientific research and to contribute to society through innovative technologies.
• Good scientific writing and communication skills.
• Willingness to take initiative, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Experience in data-analysis and documentation tools such as Excel and Origin, and you use them to organize, analyze, and present experimental results effectively.
• Ability to work in interdisciplinary research teams, and willingness to learn from others.
• Creative and critical problem-solving approach to research and technical challenges.
• Proactive approach to learn, seek input from colleagues and clearly communicate the experimental procedures and safety considerations.
• Research experience in heterogeneous catalysis or nanomaterials synthesis is desirable.
• Experience with material characterization techniques (e.g., XRD) is desirable.
• Experience in operating labscale batch/flow reactors is desirable.

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is ultimately April 1st, 2026. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and ranges between €3,059 (1st year) to €3,881 (last year), scale P. This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Promovendus is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• partly paid parental leave;
• the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.