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The EMAT research group at the Faculty of Science (University of Antwerp) is seeking to fill a PhD position in the area of “Investigation of the structure-property connection of chiral Au nanoparticles by advanced transmission electron microscopy” under the supervision of Prof Sara Bals
The vacancy is situated in the framework of an ERC Synergy Grant between S. Bals (University of Antwerp, Belgium), L. Liz-Marzán (CIC Biomagune, San Sebastian and University of Vigo, Spain) and N. Kotov (University of Michigan, USA). The title of the project is “Handshake Complexes of Chiral Nanoparticles and Proteins” (CHIRAL-PRO). The overarching goal of CHIRAL-PRO is to develop a widely applicable methodology to design chiral nanoparticles (NPs) with exceptional optical activity, for strong and predictable enantioselective interactions with nanoscale biological entities, such as proteins and amyloid fibrils. Three-dimensional (3D) investigation of the NPs structure and their growth by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is hereby of crucial importance. During the PhD position, the candidate will use state-of-the-art equipment and local spectroscopic techniques (EELS and CL) in the TEM to probe the optical response at a single particle level. A new TEM instrument, recently installed will allow for injection and collection of light. The spectroscopic techniques need to be combined with 3D characterization approaches such that the local structure can be connected with the optical response.
Position
- You will characterize the optical response at the single particle level in TEM and use techniques such as EELS and CL;
- You will develop new approaches to probe the chiroptical response in TEM;
- You will characterize the 3D structure of chiral nanoparticles by electron tomography and/or SEEBIC;
- You will develop new approaches to probe the optical response under liquid conditions;
- You will closely collaborate with researchers at CIC Biomagnue, University of Vigo and University of Michigan to understand growth of chiral NPs;
- You publish scientific articles related to the research project of the assignment;
- You present your work at national and international workshops and conferences;
- You complete the requirements of the doctoral school at the University of Antwerp.
Profile
- You hold a Master degree with a background in physics, chemistry or materials science;
- You are enthusiastic and greatly interested in the field of electron microscopy and as well as noble NPs;
- Hands-on experience with TEM is an advantage;
- You can submit outstanding academic results;
- Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
- Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
- You are highly motivated, quality-oriented, conscientious, creative and cooperative.
What we offer
- We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of 1 year. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed.
- 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.
- A world-leading exciting project in which we will aim to go significantly beyond the state-of-the-art;
- A world-class, dynamic and stimulating work environment with state-of-the-art instrumentation and computing facilities (see also http://emat.uantwerpen.be/).
- The preferred starting date is 1 November 2026, but could be adapted to the selected candidate’s availability;
- 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 Drie Eiken 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 17 August 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
- summary of your Master thesis
- a list and grades of the courses that you took during your studies
- names of 2 professional referees
- 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.
- If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to [email protected]. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact dr. Sara Bals ([email protected])
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.
