PhD Student Position on Aerogels Integrated into Electrospun Fibers
Develop innovative hybrid fiber-aerogel food packaging systems within a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions network.
Best for:Best for materials science or chemical engineering graduates with expertise in electrospinning, polymer characterization, and a strong interest in sustainable food packaging.
Overview
This PhD position is part of the FAroGels Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network, funded by the European Union under Horizon Europe and hosted at the AGH University of Krakow. The researcher will focus on developing and characterizing hybrid electrospun fiber-aerogel systems tailored for sustainable food packaging and active functionality applications. Responsibilities include electroprocessing food-grade polymers, optimizing structural and barrier properties, and integrating aerogel matrices. The successful candidate will be employed by AGH University of Krakow and must enroll in its doctoral school.
What you'll do
- Design and synthesize hybrid electrospun fiber-aerogel systems combining nanofibrous mats and biopolymer aerogels.
- Optimize key electrospinning processing parameters such as applied voltage, flow rate, and humidity to control fiber morphology.
- Perform comprehensive material characterization using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).
- Evaluate mechanical behavior and barrier performances, including water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and oxygen permeability.
- Investigate the incorporation and controlled release of bioactive compounds for active packaging prototypes.
- Collaborate closely with academic and non-academic partner organizations and other FAroGels doctoral candidates.
Requirements
Degree required: Master Degree or equivalent in materials science, chemical engineering, chemistry, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent proficiency required
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated background in materials science, polymer science, or chemical engineering
- Experience with material characterization techniques such as SEM and FTIR
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for optimizing complex material processes
- Ability to conduct independent laboratory research and data analysis
- Must hold a Master Degree or equivalent
- Must have between 1 and 4 years of full-time research experience at the time of recruitment
- Must comply with Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions mobility rules
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-09 (Europe/Warsaw)
Submit your application materials via email to the designated contact address with the reference number and position title specified in the subject line.
- CV
Contact
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