PhD in Synthesis of Sustainable PFAS-Free Polymers for High-Performance Applications

Eindhoven University of Technology; Eindhoven; On-site; EUR 36,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ABP pension scheme

On-campus child care

8% holiday allowance

8.3% year-end bonus

Commuting and internet cost allowance

OpenUp mental health support

Student Sports Center access

Expat tax scheme

Job summary

The Eindhoven University of Technology invites applications for a four-year PhD position titled “Synthesis of Sustainable PFAS-Free Polymers for High-Performance Applications.” You will work under Prof. Željko Tomović and Dr.

Catarina Esteves in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, pursuing design, synthesis, and comprehensive characterization of fluorine-free thermoplastics with outstanding surface and bulk properties.

Qualifications

• BSc and MSc in Chemistry with a strong background in organic chemistry and/or polymer chemistry.
• Experience in the synthesis and characterization of organic molecules or polymers.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• The candidate should be curious, eager to learn, and strongly interested in science and research.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize novel fluorine-free thermoplastic materials.
• Investigate how molecular architecture and surface segregation influence properties.
• Collaborate in an international, interdisciplinary research environment.

Skills

Polymer synthesis

Synthesis and characterization

English communication

Analytical/problem solving

Team player

Education

BSc and MSc in Chemistry

Job description

PhD in Synthesis of Sustainable PFAS-Free Polymers for High-Performance Applications

Departments, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry

Introduction

Fluorinated polymers and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widely used in high-performance applications because of their exceptional thermal stability, chemical resistance and low surface energy. These properties make them essential in demanding applications, including automotive and aerospace components, sealing systems, and chemical processing equipment. However, growing environmental concerns and increasing regulatory pressure, particularly in Europe, are driving the need to replace PFAS with safer and more sustainable alternatives. Developing innovative PFAS‑free materials that combine environmental sustainability with outstanding performance under demanding operating conditions represents an important scientific and technological challenge.

Job Description

In this project, the research challenge will be to design, synthesize, and characterize novel fluorine‑free thermoplastic materials that combine the outstanding surface and bulk properties of fluorinated polymers. The project will explore how molecular architecture and surface segregation can be used to achieve low surface energy while maintaining high thermal stability, chemical resistance, and robust thermomechanical properties. By combining molecular design with surface thermodynamics, the research will establish fundamental structure–property relationships linking polymer architecture and interfacial organization to macroscopic material performance. The research activities will involve the synthesis of novel polymer architectures and their comprehensive characterization using chemical, structural, thermal, rheological, and mechanical techniques, complemented by the investigation of surface and interfacial properties. The ultimate goal is to establish rational design principles for sustainable, high-performance thermoplastics suitable for demanding industrial applications, including sealing systems and high‑durability components.

An interdisciplinary and international environment

The PhD research will be carried out under the supervision of Prof. Željko Tomović and Dr. Catarina Esteves 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 PhD project will be carried out within the HARFF project, funded by the Dutch Polymer Institute (DPI), which promotes research collaboration between industry and leading universities across Europe. The industrial partners involved in this project are Envalior, SKF, Teijin Aramid, and SABIC Specialties. Through this collaborative network, you will develop new skills, build valuable academic and industrial connections, and explore how your research can contribute to developing future sustainable 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: January 01 2027

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 and/or polymer chemistry. Related engineering studies will not be considered.
• Experience in the synthesis and characterization of organic molecules or polymers 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 base salary per month (full‑time)).
• In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year‑end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part‑time.
• As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• 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, and on‑campus children’s day care.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme ) for international candidates.

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. Discover what Light Up means to TU/e in our short company video.

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. Željko Tomović, [e-mail].

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact [e-mail].

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.