PhD in Nanomaterial Gas-Phase Synthesis

Introduction

Are you passionate about making a difference on real-life applications by creating functional nanomaterials? Join us for a PhD journey at the intersection of advanced materials science and global collaboration. You’ll work in a vibrant, multicultural research environment, exploring gas-phase synthesis—primarily flame-based routes—to create functional nanopowders for a broad spectrum of emerging technologies, including impactful energy applications. If you’re driven by curiosity and excited to shape the next generation of materials, we’d love to hear from you.

Job Description

You will be the first PhD student in a growing research line dedicated to flame-made nanomaterials, giving you the unique opportunity to help shape the direction of the work while being fully embedded in the collaborative and supportive Power & Flow group at TU/e, home to several PhD researchers working on related reactive fluids and energy topics. You will work in a multicultural environment where knowledge is shared openly, and you will be supported through mentorship and collaboration across the group and faculty, apart from advisor (Prof. Claudia-F. López Cámara).

As a PhD candidate, you will spend most of your time performing hands-on experimental research in the (brand new) laboratory, where you will synthesize, characterize, and tune the functional properties of nanopowders using a flame reactor. While a minimum of previous experimental experience is required, you will receive full training in laboratory techniques, safety procedures, and the use of specialized equipment. International collaborations are expected to test the functional nanomaterials that you will produce for different applications. Moreover, attendance at conferences will also be encouraged to share your findings with the community.

We expect that you are motivated, curious, and eager to develop expertise in nanoscale materials and gas-phase processes while working as part of an international team. We will require that you follow safe and responsible work behavior both in the laboratory and outside it. If you are ready to shape the future of functional nanomaterials in an inspiring research environment, we look forward to receiving your application!

The Department of Mechanical Engineering department conducts world-class research aligned with the technological interests of the high-tech industry in the Netherlands, with a focus on the Brainport region. Our goal is to produce engineers who are both scientifically educated and application-driven by providing a balanced education and research program that combines fundamental and application aspects. We equip our graduates with practical and theoretical expertise, preparing them optimally for future challenges.

Job Requirements

• A master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Applied Physics, Nanoengineering, or Nanotechnology.
• A research-oriented attitude (motivated, curious, eager to develop expertise).
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team and interested in collaborating with both academic and industrial partners.
• Motivated to develop your teaching skills and coach students.
• Fluent in spoken and written English (C1 level).
• Basic understanding of nanomaterial characterization techniques, such as TEM, Raman spectroscopy, XRD, and/or FTIR.
• Previous exposure to experimental research.
• Available to start working on the project on April 2026. If that is not the case, please it clearly in your Cover letter when is the soonest you could start.

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you: 

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment. 
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,059 - max. € 3,881).  
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%. 
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process. 
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.  
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates. 

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is a leading international university within the Brainport region where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager Claudia-F. López-Cámara (c.f.lopez.camara@tue.nl) before January 1st 2026.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HRServices.me@tue.nl.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.