PhD position: 3D gradient photopolymer printing using bio-based and bio-degradable materials

3D-printing has begun a revolution in complex shaping. It translates virtual 3D models into physical objects in a controlled process of joining materials, usually layer-by-layer, for instance, using polymers, metals or ceramics. Due to its versatility, 3D printing is an affordable technique (easy prototyping, print on demand, cheap, etc.), which will lead to an increase of home-made disposable products, creating throwaway items, as the 3D printer usage is expected to grow rapidly.

Thanks to their broad range of properties, petroleum-derived polymers are the most common group of materials used in 3D photopolymer printing. However, their persistence has caused a worldwide waste managing problem. Moreover, the crude oil is a finite resource. These remain a visible barrier in a greener development of 3D printing and must be overcome.

Indicating direction-dependent properties i.e., gradient, in 3D printed photopolymer is a new possibility to realize their specific functions. These includes structural (variation of the filler size, distribution; variation of the porosity in foams, etc.) and chemical (variation of concentration, phase separation, etc.) gradients, or combination of both.

In this project, you will synergistically combine the ideas for gradient 3D printing with bio-based or/and bio-degradable polymers. The methods for gradient 3D printing will be developed. Biopolymers will be derived from plants and chemically modified. Biodegradation will be studied. You will aim at engineering and scientific approaches: to propose new printing solutions and sustainable materials but also to understand the processes and phenomena occurring at “boundaries” of such inhomogeneous final materials. The outcome of this project should provide new knowledge that will enable the design of 3D printing materials to be more environmentally friendly while maintaining gradient functionality.

Your profile

You have BSc. or MSc. in Chemistry and visible experimental skill in Organic Chemistry.

You have high knowledge and interest in sustainable solutions for polymers (biopolymer, biodegradation, etc.).

You have good theoretical background or/and practical knowledge about 3D printing of polymers.

You display a strong passion to science and exceptional motivation as a researcher.

You like dealing with new concepts and doing original research but you are of critical approach to evaluating experimental findings.

You are fluent in English.

You are a team player.

Our offer

An appointment for 4 years as a PhD researcher.

A salary ranging from € 2.770,- gross per month in the first year to € 3.539,- gross per month in the 4th year of your PhD appointment.

Terms of employment in accordance with the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement for Universities (CAO).

A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.

Pension as part of the solid Dutch scheme (ABP).

Access to the state-of-art research facilities.

Large campus with numerous options for free-of-charge recreational and sport activities.

Professional and personal development program within Graduate School Twente.

Information and application

Your application should include:

a motivation letter, emphasizing your specific interest and motivation.

a detailed CV.

one reference from your former supervisor with contact details.

an academic transcript of BSc. and MSc. education.

An interview and a scientific presentation will be a part of the selection procedure. Please apply before November 30, 2023, via the provided button.

For more information about the position please feel free to contact Dr. Hubert Gojzewski, [email protected]

About the organisation

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.

Want to know more? Gojzewski, H. (Hubert)

Assistant Professor

Gojzewski, H. (Hubert)

Assistant Professor

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Then you can contact Hubert for all substantive questions about this position and the application procedure. For general questions about working for the UT, please refer to the chatbot.

Contact

Phone:+31534895726

Email:[email protected]

How to apply Step 1

Apply. When you see a vacancy that appeals to you, you can apply online. We ask you to upload a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications. You will receive a confirmation of receipt by e-mail.

Step 2

Selection. The selection committee will review your application and you will receive a response within 2 weeks after the vacancy has been closed.

Step 3

1st interview. The 1st (online or in person) meeting serves as an introduction where we introduce ourselves to you and you to us. You may be asked to give a short presentation. This will be further explained in the invitation.

Step 4

2nd interview. In the second interview, we will further discuss the job content, your skills and your talents.

Step 5

The offer. If the conversations are positive, you will be made a suitable offer.

Your Colleagues

Steenbergen, W. (Wiendelt)

Personal page

Pizzoccaro - Zilamy, M.D. (Marie-Alix)

Personal page

Vargas Llona, L.D. (Laura)

Personal page

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At the UT it's all about people, in line with our university's High Tech Human Touch philosophy. In everything we do, the well-being and future of our students and staff are paramount. From research and teaching to personnel management, campus management and the use of new technologies.

Our mission We are a university of technology

Our university is a public institution that serves society. We are accountable to society for the ways in which we use our academic freedom. We are responsible for ensuring that the power of science and technology is harnessed to achieve the best possible impact in a changing world. We cherish our rich tradition of combining technical and social sciences in our five profiling themes: Improving healthcare by personalized technologies; Creating intelligent manufacturing systems; Shaping our world with smart materials; Engineering our digital society; and Engineering for a resilient world.

Our mission We help to strengthen society

We help society meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. But we are also transparent about what science and technology can and cannot do in finding sustainable solutions. And help translate these solutions into everyday life.

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We want our communities to flourish and show resilience, so we seize opportunities for innovation. We are knowledgeable and have an eye for what society needs. Our students and staff receive all the guidance they need in their quest for ecological, social and economic sustainability. “The University of Twente is all about people. Our sustainable technologies help to strengthen society.”

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