PhD Position in Physics

University of Antwerp

Department: Department of Physics
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Research Group: EMAT Research Group
Employment Type: Full-time

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF ANTWERP

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university.

We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20,000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research, and play an important service-providing role in society.

We are one of the largest, most international, and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6,000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day.

Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The EMAT Research Group in the Faculty of Science at the University of Antwerp is seeking applications for a PhD position in the area of:

"Investigation of the Structure-Property Connection of Chiral Au Nanoparticles by Advanced Transmission Electron Microscopy"

The project will be supervised by Prof. Sara Bals.

This position is part of an ERC Synergy Grant involving:

  • S. Bals (University of Antwerp, Belgium)
  • L. Liz-Marzán (CIC Biomagune, San Sebastian and University of Vigo, Spain)
  • N. Kotov (University of Michigan, USA)

The project is entitled:

"Handshake Complexes of Chiral Nanoparticles and Proteins (CHIRAL-PRO)"

The overarching goal of CHIRAL-PRO is to develop a broadly applicable methodology for designing chiral nanoparticles (NPs) with exceptional optical activity, enabling strong and predictable enantioselective interactions with nanoscale biological entities such as proteins and amyloid fibrils.

Three-dimensional (3D) investigation of nanoparticle structure and growth using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) is a key component of the project.

During the PhD, the successful candidate will use:

  • State-of-the-art TEM instrumentation
  • Local spectroscopic techniques including:
    • Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS)
    • Cathodoluminescence (CL)

A newly installed TEM instrument will enable both light injection and light collection.

These spectroscopic techniques will be combined with advanced 3D characterization approaches to establish direct links between local nanoparticle structure and optical response.

POSITION

The successful candidate will:

  • Characterize the optical response of individual nanoparticles using TEM techniques such as EELS and CL.
  • Develop new approaches to investigate the chiroptical response using TEM.
  • Characterize the 3D structure of chiral nanoparticles using electron tomography and/or SEEBIC.
  • Develop new approaches for probing optical responses under liquid conditions.
  • Collaborate closely with researchers at:Publish scientific articles related to the research project.
    • CIC Biomagune
    • University of Vigo
    • University of Michigan
      to study the growth of chiral nanoparticles.
  • Present research findings at national and international workshops and conferences.
  • Complete all requirements of the University of Antwerp Doctoral School.

PROFILE

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

  • Hold a Master's degreein:
    • Physics
    • Chemistry
    • Materials Science
  • Demonstrate strong enthusiasm for:Hands-on experience with Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) is considered an advantage.
    • Electron microscopy
    • Noble metal nanoparticles
  • Be able to demonstrate outstanding academic results.
  • Have teaching competences consistent with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
  • Have research qualities consistent with the faculty and university research policies.
  • Be highly motivated, quality-oriented, conscientious, creative, and cooperative.

WHAT WE OFFER

The University of Antwerp offers:

  • A doctoral scholarship for an initial period of one year.
  • Renewal of the scholarship following a positive evaluation.
  • Opportunities to participate in academic activities related to the project.
  • Opportunities for further professional development through training and education.
  • Participation in a world-leading research project aiming to significantly advance the current state of the art.
  • A world-class, dynamic, and stimulating research environment with state-of-the-art instrumentation and computing facilities.
  • A preferred starting date of 1 November 2026, with flexibility depending on the selected candidate's availability.
  • A monthly scholarship according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders.
  • Additional benefits including:Access to a broad range of courses and educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
    • Ecocheques
    • Internet-connectivity allowance
    • Bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs
  • A dynamic working environment primarily based at Campus Drie Eiken.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Application Deadline: 17 August 2026 (midnight Brussels time)

Applications must be submitted through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform.

Applicants should include the following attachments:

  • A motivation letter
  • An academic CV
  • A summary of the Master’s thesis
  • A list of courses completed during studies, including grades
  • Names of two professional referees

The selection committee will review applications as soon as possible after the application deadline.

Applicants will be notified once a decision has been made. Candidates who remain eligible after the pre-selection will be informed about the next step(s) in the selection procedure.

For questions regarding the online application form, applicants may:

For questions about the position, please contact:

Dr. Sara Bals
Email: sara.bals@uantwerpen.be

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

The University of Antwerp has received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy.

The University is a sustainable and family-friendly organisation that invests in the growth of its employees.

It encourages diversity and attaches great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of:

  • Gender identity
  • Disability
  • Race
  • Ethnicity
  • Religion or belief
  • Sexual orientation
  • Age

People from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics are encouraged to apply.

Apply