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Pedro Fardim

Top university

2 weeks ago

Biofabrication of Functional Cellulose KU Leuven in Belgium

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Chemistry

Funding

Full funding available

Deadline

Sep 15, 2026

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Country

Belgium

University

KU Leuven

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Keywords

Chemistry
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Biotechnology
Biology
Polymer Chemistry
Biochemical Engineering
Biofabrication
Cellulose Chemistry
Biomaterials
bio engineering

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About this position

PhD opportunity at KU Leuven: Biofabrication of Functional Cellulose

This PhD project is hosted by the Department of Chemical Engineering at KU Leuven in Leuven, Belgium, and will be mainly conducted in the Chemical and Biochemical Reactor Engineering and Safety (CREaS) division, within the laboratory of Topochemical Engineering and Biointerfaces (TEOS) led by Prof. Pedro Fardim.

The project focuses on cellulose as a versatile biopolymer for advanced applications such as coatings, gels, and adsorbents. The successful candidate will use bioprocess engineering approaches to design advanced cellulose-based materials, investigate the macromolecular mechanisms underlying cellulose biosynthesis in bacteria, and study how bioprocess parameters influence the structural and morphological changes of cellulose materials. A key objective is to relate structure and morphology to the final functionality of the materials.

The research sits at the interface of chemical engineering, biotechnology, biopolymer fabrication, and biomaterials. It offers access to advanced technologies for biopolymer fabrication and functionalization, and the project is embedded in a collaborative environment with experts in biopolymer and biomaterial technology. The TEOS group works across the whole value chain, from production to bioproduct fabrication, and collaborates closely with biomedical, food, pharmaceutical, and industrial partners.

Eligibility highlights: a master degree in Engineering, Biosciences, or (Bio)Chemistry; strong hands-on laboratory skills; independence and perseverance; curiosity; and good English communication skills. The post is a PhD position with a duration of approximately 3 to 4 years, including independent research and coursework.

Funding/application: the listing states a doctoral degree after 3 to 4 years and describes the position as a PhD opportunity, but it does not provide a separate stipend or salary amount in the supplied text. The application deadline is 2026-09-15. Applications should be submitted via the KU Leuven job portal using the provided link. For questions, contact Prof. dr. Pedro Fardim at pedro.fardim@kuleuven.be.

KU Leuven emphasizes an inclusive and respectful research environment and encourages diversity among applicants.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

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