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

Job description

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:

• a cover letter (maximum one A4 page)
• a detailed CV
• contact details of at least 2 references.

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

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.