PhD position in electrochemical device development

Organisation/Company: KU Leuven – Research Field Engineering, Materials Engineering Researcher – First Stage Researcher (R1). Final date to receive applications: 1 Jul 2026. Country:
Belgium.

Contract:

Temporary, Full‑time.

Start Date:

1 May 2026. Reference Number: BAP‑2026‑17. Not funded by an EU programme.

Within SIEMs, a PhD student will be hired to develop innovative electrocatalytic materials for electrolyzer technology to produce sustainable chemical feed stocks. The key objective is to integrate hydrogen production with the electrochemical conversion of waste plastics into value‑added chemicals in an electrolyzer system. The student will carry out systematic experimental investigations, supported by theoretical analysis from collaborators, to design and develop multimetallic electrocatalysts.

The research will involve review of the scientific literature, technical discussions within the research team, and experimental work.

Responsibilities:

• Synthesize multimetallic electrocatalysts.
• Perform electrochemical testing of catalysts.
• Analyze reaction products and characterize materials using advanced techniques.
• Collaborate with theoretical colleagues to interpret results.
• Write reports and publish findings.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Knowledge of catalysis, nanoscience, and/or electrochemistry.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills, and willingness to share knowledge.
• Networking, persistence, and passion for scientific research.
• Ability to work independently and in a dynamic research environment.

Benefits: A 4‑year PhD scholarship will be provided. You will work in Leuven, a historic and multicultural city located in the heart of Europe, within a collaborative, supportive, and dynamic research team.

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Vishal Jose ().