The aim of the project is to develop synthesis methods for monomers (mainly furandicarboxylic acid) from Algae biomass and to apply these monomers in polyester applications. This means that the majority of the work will concern parallel catalysis experiments in pressurized lab equipment and the synthesis of polyesters at lab scale. The project is part of a larger European consortium, meaning that interaction and knowledge sharing with various parties will be required.

Tasks and responsibilities:

• Design and execution of high and medium throughput parallel experiments;
• Polyester synthesis at lab scale;
• Polyester synthesis at kg scale;
• Reporting within the consortium;
• Communicate research via peer-reviewed publication and at conferences;
• Supervising students;
• Contribute to the overall development of the group through cooperation and knowledge sharing.

• A Ph.D. in chemistry;
• Extensive experience in polyester synthesis and experience in sugar dehydration chemistry;
• A committed researcher, demonstrated by previous research experiences, publications and presentations at international conferences;
• Excellent communication and writing skills in English;
• Cooperative mentality;
• The ability to work independently.

We offer a temporary employment contract for 38,00 hours per week for a period of 12 months. An extension of up to 24 months may be granted, subject to the demonstration of adequate performance. The preferred starting date is as soon as possible.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,546 - € 5,538 (scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Researcher 4 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.