Doctoral scholarship holder computational chemistry

Let’s shape the future - University of Antwerp

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The Department of Chemistry in the Faculty of Science is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of Computational Chemistry.

Position

• You will actively work on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of Chemistry.
• You will be working on atomistic modelling of seeded emulsion polymerization using molecular dynamics simulations within the MOSAIC research group. The project focuses on understanding how monomers are transported into polymer particles and incorporated into growing polymer chains, and how molecular interactions influence transport, reactivity and particle growth. You will develop and apply machine-learning potentials to study polymerization in realistic polymer environments and investigate polymer dynamics, phase compatibility and morphology development. The research will be carried out in close collaboration with an experimental research group (iPRACS) that synthesizes and characterizes these polymer systems, enabling direct comparison between simulations and experiments.
• You will draw up a research plan and corresponding research methods in consultation with your supervisors and undertake the necessary administration for a smooth PhD process.
• You will conduct the research efficiently and to an appropriate standard, possibly abroad, and compete for funding for general or specific costs.
• You will report progress to your supervisors and committees and present your research at scientific conferences.
• You will defend your thesis publicly and aim for publication in the scientific press.
• You will make a supporting, scientific contribution to existing research projects or lines of research within and beyond your own doctoral research.
• You will compete for external funding to complement the currently internally funded PhD project.
• In addition to project-based research, you will also be responsible for a limited range of support tasks related to teaching and/or research management within of the Department of Chemistry.

Profile

• You hold a master’s degree in chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Physical Engineering or related programs.
• You have a background in molecular quantum chemistry and/or computational chemistry.
• Experience with molecular dynamics simulations and/or polymer science is recommended.
• Experience with Python programming is an advantage.
• You have a good knowledge of English, both oral and written.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of one year. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship will be renewed for another period of 1 year, up until a maximum of 4 years in total.
• You will be part of the research group Modelling and Simulation in Chemistry (MOSAIC) within the Department of Chemistry.
• We offer the opportunity to take part in academic activities within the scope of your work, as well as the opportunity to further develop yourself through training and education.
• The planned start date is 01 February 2027 or as soon as possible after that date.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders.
• You will receive ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• As a doctoral researcher, you will have access to a wide and varied range of courses and an educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Groenenborger in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including 10 December 2026 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
  
  • a motivation letter
  • your academic CV
• The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure. Please note the following dates in your calendar for selection interviews: 17 and 18 December 2027.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Jelle Vekeman, Assistant Professor at jelle.vekeman@uantwerpen.be.

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.