PhD in Sustainable Photocatalysis for Plastic Recycling

Introduction

Are you intrigued by the challenge of transforming plastic waste into valuable chemical building blocks? Are you passionate about developing sustainable recycling technologies that contribute to a more circular use of carbon resources? In this PhD project, you will explore innovative light-driven strategies for the chemical recycling of polymers. By harnessing the unique reactivity and precise control offered by light, you will develop new pathways to convert persistent plastic materials under mild conditions. Are you our next PhD candidate in sustainable polymer chemistry and photocatalysis?

Job Description

Your research challenge

In this PhD project, you will develop innovative light-driven methods to break down plastics selectively and under controlled conditions. You will explore both photocatalytic and photothermal approaches and design novel organic photocatalysts tailored to these processes. The development of these photocatalysts will be supported by theoretical modelling and AI-based tools in close collaboration with a project partner. Your research will contribute to new chemical recycling technologies that reduce dependence on fossil resources and support a more circular use of carbon. By combining fundamental chemistry with practical applications, you will help create more sustainable end-of-life options for widely used plastics.

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 part of SPECTRA, a Horizon Europe EIC Pathfinder project involving academic and industrial partners from the Netherlands, Sweden and Italy. You will collaborate with researchers specialising in materials science, photocatalysis, modelling, optical engineering, reactor development, sustainability assessment and industrial innovation. This international network will give you opportunities to exchange ideas, develop new skills, and explore how your research can contribute to real-world 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: October 01, 2026

Job Requirements

• 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.
• 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.

Conditions of Employment

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. € 3,204 - max. € 4,051 gross per month).  
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%. 
• 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, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.  
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as are a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) and a compensation for moving expenses.

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

About us

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 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech 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.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Prof. Fabian Eisenreich, [email protected].

Visit our website for more information about the application process. 

Curious to hear more about what it’s 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.

Application

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 the contact information of two 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.

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.

Please note

• 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.