Job description
A 2-year postdoctoral position in polymer synthesis is available at the University of Groningen within the Horizon Europe Pathfinder project SUSHI-PACK (Sustainable High-Performance Packaging from Seaweed and Regenerated Used Cooking Oils) in the research group of Prof. Patrizio Raffa.
SUSHI-PACK brings together leading academic and industrial partners across Europe to develop next-generation sustainable packaging materials from renewable resources. Within this project, the successful candidate will contribute to the design, synthesis, and characterization of innovative bio-based polymers and polymer networks derived from regenerated waste oils and seaweed-based feedstocks for use in smart packaging applications.
What are you going to do?
The project offers a unique opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in sustainable polymer materials, collaborate within an international multidisciplinary consortium, and contribute to the development of high-performance packaging solutions with reduced environmental impact.
Experience in polymer synthesis and characterization (e.g., NMR, GPC, DSC, TGA) is essential.
The Postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to shape the scientific direction of the project, supervise MSc students, publish in leading journals, and present results at international conferences.
Requirements
The ideal candidate:
- Holds a PhD in Polymer Science, Organic Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
- Has hands-on laboratory experience in polymer and/or organic synthesis, as well as standard polymer characterization techniques. Previous experience with polycondensation chemistry is highly desirable.
- Is capable of working independently and confidently in a polymer chemistry laboratory environment.
- Demonstrates strong analytical skills, critical thinking, creativity, and initiative.
- Possesses excellent written and spoken English communication skills (proof of English proficiency may be requested).
- Has a curious mindset, a strong scientific attitude, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
- Enjoys working in an international, collaborative, and socially engaging research environment.
Conditions of employment
Fixed-term contract: A temporary appointment of 1.0 FTE for two years.
What can you expect from us?
- 232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
- End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
- Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.
Employer
University of Groningen
At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and teaching, sharing of knowledge, collaboration with businesses, government institutions, and societal organizations are aspects that are of the utmost importance to this European top university. The UG aims to be an open academic community with an inclusive and safe working climate that invites you to add your value.
Department
Faculty of Science and Engineering
The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) provides teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines, from physics and biology to artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, and pharmacy. In close collaboration with partners from industry, healthcare, and society, we contribute to the urgent challenges of our time, such as energy, sustainability, digitization, and medical technology. Our community is open and informal, with more than 7,000 students, 1,000 PhD students, and 1,400 staff members from all over the world. If you would like to learn more about the Faculty of Science and Engineering, visit rug.nl/fse.
You will be appointed as a postdoctoral researcher in the smart and sustainable polymeric product group, under the supervision of Prof Raffa. His group is part of the chemical product technology research unit within the ENTEG Institute of the University of Groningen.
Additional information
Do you have any questions or need more information?
Questions about the content of the job?
Patrizio Raffa (Associate Professor): P.Raffa@rug.nl
Questions about your application process?
Patrizio Raffa (Associate Professor): P.Raffa@rug.nl
Working at University of Groningen
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