Postdoctoral Fellow in Physics

Ghent University

Last application date
Feb 28, 2026 23:59

Department
TW17 - Department of Applied Physics

Degree
Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, (Applied) Physics, Engineering or Materials Engineering

Occupancy rate
100%

Vacancy type
Research staff

ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY

Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 15.000 people, it is actively involved in education and research, management and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on a daily basis. It is one of the largest, most exciting employers in the area and offers great career opportunities.

With its 11 faculties and more than 85 departments offering state-of-the-art study programmes grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students.

The Research Unit Plasma Technology (RUPT) at Ghent University is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research program on the plasma-assisted development of advanced tissue engineering scaffolds. The project explores how cold plasmas can be used to tailor surface chemistry, surface morphology, introduce bioactive functionalities, and create innovative scaffolds that support cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation.

The successful candidate will modify polymeric and composite biomaterials using plasma reactors, develop plasma-based coatings, and control surface chemistry and morphology to guide cellular responses. The work will involve plasma reactor operation, surface modification, advanced material characterization, and biological evaluation in collaboration with biomedical partners at UGent and Hasselt University (BIOMED Institute).

This PhD offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of plasma science, materials engineering, and regenerative medicine, within a dynamic and internationally recognized research environment.

YOUR TASKS

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to join an interdisciplinary project at the intersection of plasma technology, biomaterials and cancer therapy. The research focuses on developing next-generation plasma-treated hydrogels as a novel, selective cancer therapy.

  • Operate and optimize non-thermal plasma systems for hydrogel modification

  • Develop RONS-loaded plasma-treated hydrogels for cancer therapy

  • Perform material and surface characterization using advanced techniques (XPS, FTIR, SEM, AFM)

  • Evaluate biological responses in cancer and healthy cells in collaboration with biomedical partners

  • Analyse data and translate findings into scientific insights

  • Prepare scientific publications and present results at international conferences

  • Contribute to the scientific activities of the research group

  • Assist in supervising students and supporting teaching activities

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

  • Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, (Applied) Physics, Engineering or Materials Engineering

  • Last-year master students are strongly encouraged to apply!

  • Excellent study results

  • Strong interest in biomaterials, material characterization, polymer chemistry, plasma physics and/or plasma chemistry

  • Clear motivation for experimental and interdisciplinary research

  • Strong communication skills in English (written and oral)

  • Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team

  • Experience with cell culture and/or hydrogels is an asset, but not required

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

You will join the Research Unit Plasma Technology (RUPT), Department of Applied Physics, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture at Ghent University, under the supervision of Prof. Nathalie De Geyter and Prof. Rino Morent. RUPT has a strong international reputation in cold atmospheric pressure plasmas and leads innovative research in biomedicine, materials science, and environmental applications.

  • We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 12 months, which - after a positive evaluation, will be extended to a total maximum of 48 months.

  • Your contract will start on October 1st, 2026 at the latest.

  • The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. The individual fellowship amount is determined by Team Personnel Administration based on family status and seniority. A grant that meets the conditions and criteria of the regulations for doctoral fellowships is considered free of personal income tax. Click here for more information about our salary scales

  • All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits.

  • A stimulating, supportive and international research environment

  • The opportunity to work on a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research project

  • Access to state-of-the-art plasma systems, surface characterization tools, and in vitro cell culture facilities

  • Participation in (inter)national conferences, training programs, and skills-development workshops

  • Opportunities for international collaboration and research stays

INTERESTED?

HOW TO APPLY:

Please submit the following documents in one PDF file:

  1. Motivation letter describing your interest in the project and your suitability for the position

  2. Detailed CV, including academic results (transcript of records)

  3. Contact information for two referees

  4. (Optional) MSc thesis or relevant publications

Applications should be sent to Karen.Leus@UGent.be by February 28th, 2026 with the subject line: “PhD Application – Plasma-Treated Hydrogels”. For further information, please contact Karen Leus at the e-mail address provided above.

Apply