The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is calling on talented postdoctoral researchers and soon-to-be PhD graduates passionate about sustainable separations, carbon capture, and biomass valorization to apply for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowships (MSCA-PF).
Hosted by the Department of Chemical Engineering, this program offers the opportunity to work in a world-class research environment under the guidance of leading experts in the field. Four cutting-edge projects are currently open for applications:
Postdoctoral Fellowship: Structured Materials for Electrified Separation Processes (VUB – MSCA-PF)
Host Institution: Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Chemical Engineering
Supervisor: Prof. Joeri Denayer
Project Overview:
Join VUB in developing advanced structured materials for next-generation electrified separation processes. This project focuses on designing and optimizing innovative materials that enable sustainable and energy-efficient separations.
Who Should Apply?
Postdoctoral researchers or soon-to-be PhD graduates with expertise in materials science, chemical engineering, or related fields, and a passion for sustainable separation technologies.
Eligibility:
Must not have lived or worked in Belgium for more than 12 months in the past 3 years.
PhD must be obtained before the application deadline.
Benefits:
World-class research facilities
Competitive MSCA-PF salary and mobility allowances
Opportunities for industry collaboration and career development
Application Deadline: 10 September 2025 (17:00 CET)
Start Date: May 2026
How to Apply:
Submit the following to Joeri.Denayer@vub.be:
CV
Proof of residence (past 5 years)
2–3-page motivation letter (aligned with the project)
Proof of PhD completion
Postdoctoral Fellowship: Sustainable Adsorptive Separation of Arbutin (VUB – MSCA-PF)
Host Institution: Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Chemical Engineering
Supervisor: Prof. Keikhosro Karimi
Project Overview:
This project focuses on developing sustainable adsorptive separation technologies for arbutin, a valuable bioactive compound. The research combines advanced adsorption methods with process intensification strategies to create eco-friendly solutions.
Who Should Apply?
Candidates with a background in adsorption, separation processes, or biochemical engineering, eager to work at the intersection of sustainability and innovation.
Eligibility & Benefits:
Same as other VUB MSCA-PF positions.
Application Deadline: 10 September 2025 (17:00 CET)
Start Date: May 2026
How to Apply:
Submit the following to Keikhosro.Karimi@vub.be:
CV
Proof of residence (past 5 years)
2–3-page motivation letter (aligned with the project)
Proof of PhD completion
Postdoctoral Fellowship: Process Modeling & Optimization of Biomass Valorization (VUB – MSCA-PF)
Host Institution: Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Chemical Engineering
Supervisor: Prof. Keikhosro Karimi
Project Overview:
Advance the field of biomass valorization through process modeling and optimization. This research aims to develop innovative pathways for converting biomass into valuable chemicals and fuels, contributing to a sustainable circular economy.
Who Should Apply?
Researchers with expertise in process modeling, chemical process engineering, or sustainable energy systems.
Eligibility, Benefits, and Application Procedure:
Same as other VUB MSCA-PF positions.
Deadline: 10 September 2025 (17:00 CET)
Start: May 2026
How to Apply:
Submit the following to Keikhosro.Karimi@vub.be:
CV
Proof of residence (past 5 years)
2–3-page motivation letter (aligned with the project)
Proof of PhD completion
Postdoctoral Fellowship: Advanced Adsorptive Carbon Capture from Waste Incineration Flue Gas (VUB – MSCA-PF)
Host Institution: Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Department of Chemical Engineering
Supervisor: Prof. Keikhosro Karimi
Project Overview:
Be part of the fight against climate change by working on advanced adsorptive carbon capture technologies. This project targets the removal of CO₂ from waste incineration flue gas using cutting-edge adsorption techniques.
Who Should Apply?
Postdocs with a strong background in adsorption, carbon capture, or environmental engineering, and a passion for developing sustainable energy solutions.
Eligibility & Benefits:
Same as other VUB MSCA-PF positions.
Deadline: 10 September 2025 (17:00 CET)
Start: May 2026
How to Apply:
Submit the following to Keikhosro.Karimi@vub.be:
CV
Proof of residence (past 5 years)
2–3-page motivation letter (aligned with the project)
Proof of PhD completion
Spontaneous applications
Spontaneous applications are always welcomed and reviewed with interest.
We offer a young, dynamic and stimulating work environment, contacts and collaboration with leading research groups and companies, the possibility to present research results at international conferences, and extra-legal benefits such as free public transport, biking fee for work traffic, use of sports facilities and student restaurant at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
The research areas within our research group can be found on this website, so feel free to check them out.
Profile for post-doc: Preferably, you own a PhD in (Chemical) Engineering, Chemistry or Bio-engineering. You have the necessary skills and expertise to work in the department’s research areas. You are able to work independently and accurately. You can work together with other people and when necessary guide fellow researchers in the research topic. You have good communicative skills (written and oral). You have a good knowledge of English, good knowledge of Dutch is a plus.
Application and contact: According to the desired research topic, the candidates should contact the relevant lead scientist (check our staff page for all contact details).