PhD Candidate Circular Bio-based Plastics

NTCP is a young and dynamic applied research organisation around circular plastics. We have unique industrial-size set-ups that we use for independent R&D that covers the complete plastic journey from product via dumpster truck to extruder or chemical reactor to new product again. Our colourful building is a landmark in Heerenveen, The Netherlands.

We have a renowned knowledge position in the plastic recycling domain, including a strong network of waste management companies, FMCG brand owners, universities, sustainability NGOs, recycling equipment manufacturers, polymer producers, chemical industry, water treatment companies, and local authorities.

In the second half of 2024, in a consortium of 18 parties, we will embark on a Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking project “PROSPER” on the sorting and recycling of bio-based plastics. In this project, NTCP will be responsible for the research in sorting and pre-treatment of bio-based plastics from household waste. Ghent University will be the lead institution for the project. For this project we are looking for a:

PhD Candidate

Circular Bio-based Plastics

As a PhD Candidate you will be working in a team of experts at the unique facilities of NTCP in Heerenveen and will be following the PhD track at Ghent University in the Department of Green Chemistry and Technology.

Key responsibilities

• About 80% of your assignment will be spent on academic research in preparation of a PhD
• Design, perform, and optimise trials and experiments related to bio-based plastic recycling
• Counselling master and bachelor students active within your research project
• Managing part of the project, reporting to the consortium, dissemination in journals and conferences
• Identifying opportunities for follow-up research work

Job requirements

• MSc degree in chemistry, experimental physics, engineering, materials science, or another relevant field with an interest in the circular economy
• You have a strong motivation for conducting hands-on scientific research and dealing with complex research questions within a high-level research team.
• Self-motivated and pro-active team member
• Structured and creative problem-solving abilities, strong analytical and technical skills, critical scientific mindset and take responsibility for the development of your work
• Excellent English communication skills (written and oral)
• Knowledge of Dutch is a plus, not a must
• Authorised to work in The Netherlands

Our offer

We offer you the opportunity to work in an innovative and creative environment in an area that matters and creates impact on the circular use of resources. The vibrant atmosphere of NTCP also gives you the opportunity to contribute to the technological directions of NTCP. You will join a team of about 20 well-motivated colleagues, have regular contacts with the scientists at Ghent University, and will have a lot of international contacts. Of course, our employment conditions are competitive.

NTCP is committed to offer an inclusive working environment where all NTCP employees must have the same opportunities, be able to develop themselves as much as possible and – of course – be themselves within the NTCP organisation.

Interested?

Does this PhD Candidate position sound right for you and do you meet the above requirements, then apply with your CV and motivation letter by email to Marcel van Eijk, R&D Manager NTCP (mvaneijk@ntcp.nl). We only take applications in consideration that are written in English. For more information you can contact Marcel van Eijk.