PhD in Light-Driven Synthesis and Recycling of Bio-Based Polymers

Are you intrigued by the potential of light-driven chemistry to create sustainable bio-based polymers Are you passionate about developing innovative recycling technologies that support a more circular use of carbon resources In this PhD project you will investigate novel photochemical strategies for the synthesis and chemical recycling of polymers derived from renewable feedstocks. You will also explore the use of these bio-based polymers in the development of durable composite materials. Are you our next PhD candidate in sustainable polymer chemistry

Your research challenge

In this PhD project you will develop innovative light-driven strategies for the synthesis and chemical recycling of polymers derived from renewable resources. The project combines fundamental photochemistry with polymer science and materials chemistry giving you the opportunity to explore how concepts developed at the molecular level can be translated into functional polymeric materials.

You will design and synthesize polymers from a range of renewable feedstocks using mild and selective photochemical methods. By studying the underlying reaction mechanisms and photochemical design principles you will gain a deep understanding of how light can be used to control polymer formation and structure.

A key focus of the project will be chemical recycling. You will develop photocatalytic approaches to selectively break down the polymers into their original building blocks enabling the recovery and reuse of valuable bio-based this way the project aims to establish more circular strategies for the use of renewable carbon resources.

Beyond polymer synthesis and recycling you will investigate the use of these materials in durable and mechanically robust composites. This will allow you to connect fundamental molecular design with real-world materials performance and explore how sustainable polymers can be integrated into advanced applications.

By bringing together photochemistry polymer chemistry recycling and materials science you will contribute to the development of new approaches for designing polymers with built-in sustainability and circularity.

An interdisciplinary and international environment

You will conduct your research under the supervision of Prof. Fabian Eisenreich in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at Eindhoven University of Technology. You will join the Polymer Performance Materials research group which focuses on sustainable polymer chemistry. You will also become part of the interdisciplinary Institute for Complex Molecular Systems which connects TU/e researchers working across polymer science and related fields.

The position is funded through the EuroTech programme which promotes research collaboration between leading technical universities across Europe. As part of this project you will work closely with a research partner at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). The project includes a six-month research stay at DTU giving you the opportunity to work in an international research environment exchange ideas with collaborators and broaden your scientific expertise. Through this network you will develop new skills build valuable academic connections and explore how your research can contribute to the development of future sustainable technologies.

Working at TU/e

At TU/e you will work in an environment that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on mentality. You will receive personal guidance while having room to develop your own ideas ambitions and talents. Together with supportive colleagues from different disciplines and backgrounds you will push the boundaries of sustainable polymer chemistry and contribute to research with clear societal relevance.

Ideal start date: November 01 2026

• We are seeking a highly talented motivated and enthusiastic candidate with a BSc and MSc degree in Chemistry with a strong background in organic chemistry polymer chemistry and/or catalysis. Related engineering studies will not be considered.
• Experience in the synthesis and characterization of organic molecules is essential.
• Strong analytical skills initiative creativity and problem-solving abilities are highly valued.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are required.
• The candidate should be naturally curious eager to learn and strongly interested in science and research.
• A scientific mindset combined with a hands-on approach and an interest in application-oriented research is highly desirable.
• The candidate should have a strong team spirit and enjoy working in an international collaborative and socially engaging environment.
• Interviews a scientific presentation and a small writing assignment will be part of the selection procedure.
  
  

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful green campus within walking distance of the central train station.

In addition we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme paid pregnancy and maternity leave partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities scale P (min. 3204 - max. 4051 gross base salary per month (full-time)).
• In addition to your base salary you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part-time.
• As a TU/e employee you participate in the ABP pension scheme providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure and on-campus childrens day care.
• Unlimited access to the modern oncampus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp providing you and your family with mental health support expert guidance and online training.
• An allowance for commuting working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13000 students and more than 7000 staff forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven a worldleading tech region with more than 7000 hightech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI photonics semiconductors and advanced manufacturing Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry bridges science and engineering to create sustainable solutions for society. By combining expertise in molecules materials and processes we drive innovations that address global challenges in energy circularity health and future technology. Through world-class research interdisciplinary collaboration and strong industry partnerships we educate engineers and scientists who turn scientific discoveries into technologies with lasting societal impact. Together we create chemistry for a better world.

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more Please contact the hiring manager Prof. Fabian Eisenreich .

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact .

Curious to hear more about what its like as a PhD candidate at TU/e Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e Please visit our career page.

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.
• A transcript of your BSc and MSc studies.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.