PhD researcher photosensitizers and singlet oxygen-based chemistry

PhD researcher photosensitizers and singlet oxygen-based chemistry

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The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape.

A-PECS at the Department of Bioscience Engineering in the Faculty of Science is looking for a full-time (100%) PhD researcher in the field of photosensitizers and singlet oxygen-based chemistry.

This PhD project aims to investigate the synthesis, functionalization and photochemical behaviour of photosensitizers for singlet oxygen-based photoelectrochemical sensing of nucleic acids. The project will involve the modification of photosensitizers with conjugation handles, the development of coupling strategies for their attachment to nucleic acids, and the characterization of their chemical and photophysical properties. Moreover, the project will study the quenching behaviour of photosensitizers, with a focus on singlet oxygen production and suppression in photoelectrochemical sensing applications. This fundamental research project will advance the understanding of photosensitizers in photoelectrochemistry and nucleic acid detection. Ultimately, the project may contribute to the development of novel biosensor technologies for detecting clinically relevant nucleic acids in healthcare applications.

Position

• You prepare a doctoral thesis in the field of photosensitizers and singlet oxygen-based chemistry.
• You publish scientific articles related to the research project of the assignment.
• You present your work at national and international workshops and conferences.

Profile

• You hold a master's degree in chemistry, bioscience engineering or chemical engineering. Master students in their final year can also apply. Experience in organic chemistry is considered an advantage.
• You can submit outstanding academic results.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• A creative and analytical mind.
• In view of the international context, mastering of the English language (both oral and written) is mandatory.

What we offer

• A doctoral scholarship for a period of one year, with the possibility of renewal after positive evaluation;
• The start date of the scholarship can be discussed;
• You will do most of your work at Campus Groenenborger in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here .

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.

Job details

Title

PhD researcher photosensitizers and singlet oxygen-based chemistry

Closing on: 2026-09-10 (Europe/Brussels)

Closing on: 2026-09-07 (Europe/Brussels)

Closing on: 2026-08-24 (Europe/Brussels)

TheUniversity of Antwerpis characterised by its high standards in education, internationally competitive research and entrepreneurial approach.