Postdoc in Light-Driven Nitrogen Activation
(ref. BAP-2025-503)
Laatst aangepast: 01/08/25
Laatst aangepast: 01/08/25
The Roeffaers Lab at KU Leuven focuses on advanced materials research with applications in (photo)catalysis and sustainable chemistry. We develop and study novel catalytic systems using state-of-the-art optical techniques such as fluorescence and Raman microscopy. This position is part of a funded EU Pathfinder Challenge project (Photonia), aimed at solar-driven nitrogen conversion for on-site fertilizer production. The work is carried out in close collaboration with the Hofkens Lab and several leading European research groups.
Responsibilities
- Design and synthesize photocatalysts for solar-driven nitrogen reduction (NRR) to ammonia, with a focus on activity, selectivity, and integration in decentralized fertilizer production systems.
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Characterize structural, optical, and electronic properties of the materials using techniques such as XRD, UV-Vis, photoluminescence, FTIR, and electrochemical analysis.
- Evaluate photocatalytic performance under simulated solar irradiation using lab-scale flow or batch reactors, quantifying conversion efficiency and selectivity.
- Study catalyst stability and nitrogen activation mechanisms through operando or time-resolved spectroscopy, in collaboration with the Roeffaers and Hofkens labs.
- Contribute to the coupling of NRR photocatalysts with oxygen-evolving counterparts in integrated Z-scheme architectures developed within the Photonia project.
Work closely with synthetic chemists, photophysicists, and engineers across the consortium to ensure compatibility of catalyst properties with system-level integration.- Coordinate with PhD students working on related topics, represent KU Leuven in consortium meetings, and communicate actively with international EU partners, supporting your growth as a future project leader.
- Disseminate research through peer-reviewed publications, project deliverables, and presentations to both academic and industrial stakeholders.
Profile
- A PhD in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field, with a strong focus on photocatalysis, inorganic synthesis, or sustainable energy conversion.
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Proven expertise in the synthesis and characterization of catalytic materials, ideally for nitrogen reduction (NRR).
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Hands-on experience with techniques such as XRD, UV-Vis spectroscopy, photoluminescence, electrochemistry, and catalytic testing under illumination.
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Familiarity with solar-driven reaction systems, Z-scheme photocatalysis, or light-harvesting materials is a strong asset.
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A collaborative mindset and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, bridging synthetic work, spectroscopy, and photocatalytic testing.
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Excellent communication skills, with the motivation to coordinate PhD students and interact with international partners in a large EU-funded project.
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A solid publication record in relevant areas and a clear interest in contributing to innovation and sustainability through advanced materials research.
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Eagerness to grow into a leadership role in a dynamic research environment, including project coordination and strategic input within the consortium.
Offer
- A dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment with state-of-the-art facilities for catalyst synthesis, operando spectroscopy, and solar-driven reaction testing.
- The opportunity to contribute to breakthrough innovations in green fertilizer production within a prestigious EU Pathfinder project, in close collaboration with leading academic partners.
- A role with clear growth potential, including coordination of research tasks, interaction with international collaborators, and development of leadership skills.
- Support for professional development, networking, and career advancement within a stimulating and impact-driven research ecosystem.
- Participation in the training and networking offer for EIC beneficiaries, including entrepreneurship trainings.
Link to the CORDIS page of the EU-funded project Photonia
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Maarten Roeffaers, mail: [email protected] or Dr. Flip de Jong, mail: [email protected].
You can apply for this job no later than September 01, 2025 via the online application tool
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
Heb je een vraag over de online sollicitatieprocedure? Raadpleeg onze veelgestelde vragen of stuur een e-mail naar [email protected]
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Tewerkstellingspercentage: Voltijds
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Locatie: Leuven
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Solliciteren tot en met:01/09/2025 23:59 CET
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Tags: Chemie, Chemische Ingenieurstechnieken, Materiaalkunde
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