Pedro Fardim

The Department of Chemical Engineering at KU Leuven offers a PhD position focused on the chemodesign of polysaccharide-based microgels. This research will be conducted within the Chemical and Biochemical Reactor Engineering and Safety (CREaS) division, specifically in the laboratory of Topochemical Engineering and Biointerfaces (TEOS) led by Professor Pedro Fardim. The CREaS division integrates expertise from various domains of (bio)chemical reactor and process engineering, ranging from macro- and microscopic analysis to process optimization and design. The project centers on the design and fabrication of polysaccharide-based microgel particles with tailored chemical and physicochemical functionalities. These microgels possess unique properties that make them suitable for diverse applications, such as texturizing foods and encapsulating active ingredients. The research will involve investigating the mechanisms behind irreversible changes during drying and rewetting, studying structural changes from intermolecular rearrangement to particle shrinkage, and linking microstructural changes to dispersion rheology and encapsulation properties. As a PhD student, you will have access to cutting-edge technology in biopolymer fabrication and functionalization, and you will collaborate with world-class experts in biopolymer and biomaterial technology. The project emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration with biomedical, food, and pharmaceutical sciences, as well as industry partners. The research group is internationally recognized for its work on fractionation and purification of biopolymers from plant biomass and biotechnologically produced materials, post-functionalization of polymers, and the creation of high-performance polymers for health and care applications. KU Leuven is a top 50 university globally and top 10 in Europe, offering excellent research facilities and opportunities for collaboration with leading scientists. The PhD program typically lasts 3 to 4 years and includes independent research and coursework. Upon completion, graduates benefit from excellent job prospects in academia, industry, and research institutes. Eligibility requirements include a master's degree in Engineering, Biosciences, or Chemistry, strong laboratory skills, independence, perseverance, curiosity, and proficiency in English. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a supportive and respectful environment for all students and staff. Application is open until January 30, 2026. Interested candidates should apply online via the KU Leuven job portal and may contact Prof. dr. Pedro Fardim for further information. This is an outstanding opportunity to contribute to innovative research in chemical engineering, materials science, and biomaterials at a leading European institution.

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.

KU Leuven is advertising a doctoral researcher position in bacterial cellulose biosynthesis and the design of advanced materials . The opportunity is presented as a unique chance to contribute to fundamental research in a highly interdisciplinary area connecting chemical engineering , materials science , and biological processes . The post is shared by Pedro Fardim , Professor at KU Leuven , and references the Department of Chemical Engineering as well as the EPNOE Association . The research topic suggests work on polysaccharide-based systems, bacterial cellulose formation, and material design for sustainable applications. This is a PhD/doctoral opening . No detailed eligibility criteria, funding package, stipend, tuition coverage, or deadline are stated in the post itself. Interested candidates should use the application link provided in the post to access the official application page and review the full requirements. Research keywords: bacterial cellulose biosynthesis, advanced materials, polysaccharides, chemical engineering, materials science, fundamental research.