PhD research project: Sustainable by design circular composite bioplastics
Develop high-performance circular composite bioplastics from polyhydroxyalkanoates and recycled cellulose within an EU project.
Best for:Best for chemical engineering and polymer science graduates with strong hands-on laboratory experience and an interest in sustainable materials.
Overview
This PhD project is hosted by Wetsus in collaboration with the University of Groningen as part of the Horizon Europe-funded SOWISE+ initiative. The researcher will focus on formulating co-polymer blends and cellulose composites to establish masterbatch biopolymer property specifications. The work involves interdisciplinary research combining polymer science, chemical engineering, and hands-on laboratory and pilot-scale experiments. The successful candidate is expected to advance impurity quality control and contribute to real-world circular economy demonstrations.
What you'll do
- Formulate co-polymer blends and cellulose composites to define masterbatch bioplastic property specifications
- Conduct solution formulation, extrusion, and mechanical testing protocols
- Perform advanced analytical characterisation including rheology, TGA, DSC, FTIR, and mass spectrometry
- Engage in hands-on research of PHA recovery at both laboratory and pilot scales
- Collaborate closely with local Dutch and international industrial and academic partners within the SOWISE+ project
- Translate batch variability and impurity monitoring data into optimized composite formulation strategies
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science in chemical engineering, polymer science, or a closely related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent written and oral communication proficiency
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated practical testing experience in materials science and polymer melt processing
- Proficiency in polymer quality characterisation techniques and data analysis
- Strong understanding of structure-property relationships in polymer science
- Familiarity with separation techniques in chemical engineering processes
- Hold a recognized master's degree prior to appointment
- Meet all requirements for admission to a doctoral programme
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-16 (Europe/Amsterdam)
Applications must be submitted in English via the official application webpage before the specified deadline. Only complete applications that adhere to the submission guidelines will be evaluated.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Transcripts
Contact
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