PhD Scholarship in Polymer Synthesis by use of CRP Techniques at DTU Chemical Engineering – Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark

Summary

DTU Chemical Engineering in Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark, is offering a 3-year PhD scholarship focusing on polymer synthesis through controlled radical polymerization (CRP) techniques like ATRP and RAFT. The researcher will work on precision polymer synthesis, molecular design, and characterization of functional polymers and block copolymers. Candidates must possess or be close to completing a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS) and have practical experience in polymer synthesis. The employment agreement follows collective terms with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The application deadline is 2026-10-13, and materials must be submitted as a single PDF in English.

Key Facts

Department	DTU Chemical Engineering
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	Chemical Engineering
Research Area	Polymer Synthesis
Degree Required	Master's degree
Experience	Practical experience in polymer synthesis obtained through MSc studies or equivalent research activities.
Salary	Based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.
Funding	Scholarship
Contract Duration	3 years
Language	English
Deadline	2026-10-13
Required Documents	Cover letter (letter motivating the application), Curriculum vitae, Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale, Table of prior experience in polymer synthesis and characterization methods
Employer Contact	Anders E. Daugaard, [email protected]

About the Project

The PhD project aims to establish advanced polymer synthesis strategies to prepare functional polymers and block copolymers using CRP techniques (such as ATRP and RAFT). It focuses on precision synthesis, molecular design, establishing structure-property relationships, and creating next-generation functional materials for high-performance applications.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and synthesize novel polymer architectures using controlled radical polymerization methods such as ATRP and RAFT.
• Characterize materials using analytical techniques such as NMR, SEC/GPC, FTIR, DSC, TGA, rheology, or mechanical testing.
• Contribute to the development of scalable polymerization methodologies.
• Collaborate across disciplines with other researchers and conduct potential proof-of-concept demonstrations.
• Teach and supervise student projects as part of the PhD programme.

Required Skills

• Practical experience in polymer synthesis obtained through MSc studies or equivalent research.
• Practical experience with ATRP, RAFT, or related controlled radical polymerization techniques.
• Strong analytical skills and hands-on experience with characterization techniques such as NMR, SEC/GPC, FTIR, DSC, TGA, rheology, or mechanical testing.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively across disciplines.
• Experience with silicone chemistry or silicone-containing materials is considered an advantage.

Who Should Apply

Candidates holding or about to complete a two-year Master's degree (120 ECTS) with practical experience in polymer synthesis, strong analytical skills in characterization techniques (such as NMR, SEC/GPC, FTIR, DSC, TGA), and an interest in controlled radical polymerization methods and functional materials.

Benefits

• 3-year appointment based on collective agreements.
• Opportunity to work in an international environment with academic freedom.
• Monthly free seminar titled 'PhD relocation to Denmark and startup Zoom seminar' for practical relocation guidance.

About the Employer

DTU Chemical Engineering operates across microscale, laboratory scale, pilot facilities, and industrial scale, collaborating with Danish industrial enterprises and global academic and industrial partners.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline for applications?

The deadline to submit online applications is 13 October 2026 at 23:59 Danish time.

What degree is required to apply?

Applicants must hold a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or an equivalent degree. Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their degree but must receive it before starting.

What is the duration of the PhD position?

The employment period is 3 years.

What documents must be submitted with the application?

Applicants must submit a cover letter, CV, BSc/MSc diplomas and transcripts with an official grading scale description, and a table outlining prior experience in polymer synthesis and characterization methods.

In what language should the application documents be?

All application materials must be attached in English within one single PDF file.