PhD Position in Nanoparticle Surface Self-Assembly Using Non-Linear Optics at KU Leuven, Belgium

Location: Oude Markt 13, Leuven, Belgium
Employer: KU Leuven
Application Deadline: June 30, 2025, 23:59 (Europe/Brussels)
Job Type: PhD
Field: Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Optics

About the Employer: KU Leuven

KU Leuven is an autonomous and world-renowned university, founded in 1425, with a long tradition of excellence in education and research. The university embraces a diverse and interdisciplinary approach to research, and its facilities support cutting-edge investigations in a variety of scientific fields.

About the Project: Nanoparticle Surface Self-Assembly Using Non-Linear Optics

This PhD project will be carried out in the Sustainable Materials Lab within the Department of Chemical Engineering at KU Leuven, under the guidance of Prof. Wim Thielemans. The lab focuses on sustainable materials from renewable sources, combining fundamental and applied research.

The project explores the self-assembly of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) at interfaces, leveraging non-linear optical techniques such as second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy. CNCs, biobased rodlike nanoparticles, are used to stabilize emulsions and create materials with enhanced elasticity. The goal of the research is to study the structuring of CNCs at air-water and oil-water interfaces, expanding the current second harmonic microscopy setup to include a Langmuir-Blodgett trough inside the microscope. This will allow for the detailed study of how CNCs self-assemble at these interfaces under varying conditions, and their effect on material properties like elasticity and rheology.

Research Objectives

• Expand the SHG microscopy setup to incorporate a Langmuir-Blodgett trough for interface studies.

• Investigate CNC structuring at air-water and oil-water interfaces under various environmental conditions (ionic strength, interfacial energy, surface groups, etc.).

• Study the elastic properties and interfacial rheology of the assembled CNCs.

• Develop the mathematical framework needed to interpret the experimental results.

• Apply findings to develop new multiphase materials, such as membranes and self-supporting materials for cell growth.

Your Profile

We are looking for a motivated researcher who meets the following criteria:

• Educational Background:

  • A Master’s degree in Physics or Chemical Engineering with a strong mathematical foundation.

  • Interest in non-linear optics and nanoparticle self-assembly at interfaces.

• Experience:

  • Previous experience with (non-linear) optics, laser setups, and/or colloidal assembly is highly desirable.

• Academic Requirements:

  • Distinction or honors in your studies, or experience as an author of a peer-reviewed scientific publication (required for the engineering doctoral school).

• Skills:

  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

  • Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary research team.

Offer

• PhD Scholarship: 4-year fully funded PhD scholarship in Chemical Engineering.

• Annual Progress Review: Regular evaluation of your research progress.

• Facilities: Access to world-class research facilities, including specialized optical setups and collaborations with international research groups.

• Publications: Opportunities for publishing in top-tier journals on self-assembly of CNCs using SHG microscopy.

How to Apply

To apply, please send the following documents:

1. Motivation Letter – Expressing your specific interest in this PhD project.

2. Detailed CV (resume) and publication list.

3. Contact Details of at least two referees.

4. Academic Transcripts of B.Sc. and M.Sc. education, including grades.

5. TOEFL or IELTS score to verify proficiency in English (if applicable).

Please submit your application before the deadline of June 30, 2025 via the KU Leuven application portal.

For further information, contact:
Prof. Dr. Ir. Wim Thielemans
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +32 56 24 61 71

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This PhD position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of non-linear optics and nanoparticle self-assembly at one of Belgium’s leading universities. Join KU Leuven’s Sustainable Materials Lab and contribute to the development of innovative, sustainable materials!