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  2. Postdoc position: Improvement of the in-rubber performance by using carbon nanotubes

Postdoc position: Improvement of the in-rubber performance by using carbon nanotubes

One-year full-time project, with the possibility of extension upon successful achievement of key targets, including a greater than 40% improvement in rubber stiffness (M300) with minimal impact on rubber hysteresis.

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    Peter Chemweno
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    new colleague?
    Anouk Bomers
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    new colleague?
    Floriana Anselmucci
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    new colleague?
    Suzanne Hulscher
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    new colleague?
    Mark Vlutters
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    new colleague?
    Christopher Balfe
  • Hi! Are you my
    new colleague?
    Mina Shahi
  • Hi! Are you my
    new colleague?
    Tjerkje Dijkstra

Key takeaways

  • Hours
    38 - 40 hr.
  • Salary indication
    Salary gross/monthly
    based on full-time
    € 3,378 - € 5,331
  • Deadline
    14 Aug 2025

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) will be functionalized with chemical groups capable of interacting with both silica fillers and rubber polymers. These functionalized CNTs will be incorporated into rubber compounds to evaluate their influence on in-rubber properties. Special emphasis is placed on the development of a CNT–silica hybrid filler through the pre-reaction of functionalized CNTs with silica prior to compounding with rubber. The study also investigates the interaction between functionalized CNTs and rubber polymers, including modified rubbers. The objective is to enhance rubber stiffness (M300) while minimizing the impact on hysteresis and hardness.

Your profile

  • Hold a PhD or Master's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering or a closely related field.
  • Relevant research experience is highly desirable, particularly in:
  • Structural and property analysis of carbonaceous and silica nanoparticles
  • Chemical modification of nanoparticles
  • Rubber compounding, mixing and performance testing
  • Strong command of English (written and spoken) is required

Our offer

  • a position in an inspiring, multidisciplinary and international environment with an attractive campus and lots of facilities for sports and leisure. The university provides a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues. You will be appointed as a Researcher in a full-time position for 1 year. An extension of the contract is a possibility.
  • a gross salary between € 3.378- and € 5.331,- per month (depending on experience and qualifications)and in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement (CAO) of the Dutch Universities.
  • excellent facilities for professional and personal development
  • holiday allowance of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8,3% of the gross annual salary
  • A minimum of 29 holidays in case of full-time employment.

Information and application

Are you interested in being part of our team? Please send your application before August 14th, 2025, via the "apply now" button and include:

Interviews are planned for August, 18 and August, 19th, 2025.

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About the organisation

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) engages in education and research of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Industrial Design Engineering. We enable society and industry to innovate and create value using efficient, solid and sustainable technology. We are part of a ‘people-first' university of technology, taking our place as an internationally leading center for smart production, processes and devices in five domains: Health Technology, Maintenance, Smart Regions, Smart Industry and Sustainable Resources. Our faculty is home to about 2,900 Bachelor's and Master's students, 550 employees and 150 PhD candidates. Our educational and research programmes are closely connected with UT research institutes Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.

Want to know more

Blume, A. (Anke)

Blume, A. (Anke)
Full Professor

Blume, A. (Anke)
Full Professor

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Then you can contact Anke for all substantive questions about this position and the application procedure. For general questions about working for the UT, please refer to the chatbot.

How to apply

Step 1

Apply.
When you see a vacancy that appeals to you, you can apply online. We ask you to upload a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications. You will receive a confirmation of receipt by e-mail.

Apply now

Step 2

Selection.
The selection committee will review your application and you will receive a response within 2 weeks after the vacancy has been closed.

Step 3

1st interview.
The 1st (online or in person) meeting serves as an introduction where we introduce ourselves to you and you to us. You may be asked to give a short presentation. This will be further explained in the invitation.

Step 4

2nd interview.
In the second interview, we will further discuss the job content, your skills and your talents.

Step 5

The offer.
If the conversations are positive, you will be made a suitable offer. If applicable, we will sign you up for screening.

Your Colleagues

About The Faculty ET

Curious about what the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) stands for? Check out the ET website for more information.

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