Join our dynamic team for an exciting PhD project aimed at understanding the multifaceted relationship between epoxy coating structure and solvent absorption, including water. Our foundational hypothesis challenges the conventional wisdom, postulating that chemical reactions are not the primary drivers of chemical resistance; instead, it is governed by physical absorption/desorption processes.  

The Hempel Foundation Coatings Science and Technology Research Center (CoaST) at Denmark Technical University (DTU) in collaboration with Hempel A/S (Denmark) recognizes this crucial knowledge gap. We thereby are actively seeking candidates for a fully funded PhD position in the field of coating-solvent interactions, providing insights into the fundamental mechanisms driving chemical resistance.

Your research will focus on examining how specific factors like resin polarity, free fractional volume interact and combine to influence overall solvent absorption. Ultimately establishing a comprehensive structure-property relationship that connect monomer structure to coating dynamics is anticipated. This work is especially relevant to upcoming sustainable fuels applications. By understanding the coating-solvent relationship, we intend to contribute to the development of coatings that are not only chemically resistant but also compatible with sustainable fuels.

Why Join Us?
At CoaST, we are committed to addressing the global challenges of coating technologies with a focus on sustainability. As a member of our vibrant and interdisciplinary research community, you will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge equipment, and a supportive network of experienced researchers. Our collaborative environment encourages scientific curiosity, innovation, and knowledge sharing.

Eligibility:
A candidate with a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree (e.g.: a MSc degree equivalent to at least 5 years of studies including a BSc degree) in chemical engineering, chemistry or materials science.

Whether you are a recent graduate looking to embark on a research career or an experienced professional seeking a transition to the world of research, we encourage you to apply.

To excel in this role, you should be highly motivated, possess excellent problem-solving skills, and have a keen interest in coatings science & technology. Prior experience in coatings research, knowledge of organic chemistry, and thermodynamics will be advantageous. We welcome applications from candidates with backgrounds in the following disciplines including but not limited to Chemistry, Applied Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, and Polymer Chemistry. Analytical skills and proficiency in advanced characterization techniques, would be an advantage.

Join CoaST, Make a Difference:
By joining CoaST at DTU, you will become part of a dedicated team that strives to revolutionize the coatings industry for a sustainable future. Denmark Technical University, renowned for its cutting-edge research and collaborative environment, provides an ideal platform to turn your passion for coatings science into reality. At CoaST, you will become part of a well-functioning group of nearly 50 people, of which 30 are PhD students. With more than 15 nationalities, our working environment is international, intercultural and including. Our working language is English. Embrace the feel-good factor of making a positive impact on our oceans and contribute to the advancement of low-biocidal antifouling coatings.

Approval and Enrolment:
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education . 

Salary and appointment terms 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.

The starting date will be according to mutual agreement, but at the earliest April 1, 2024. The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.

Further information:
Further information can be obtained from Narayanan Rajagopalan (naraj@kt.dtu.dk ) and Søren Kiil (sk@kt.dtu.dk ). 

You can read more about DTU Chemical Engineering and CoaST at www.kt.dtu.dk/english.

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. 

Application procedure:
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 2 January 2024 (23:59 Danish time) . Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale

You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

The Hempel Foundation Coatings Science and Technology Centre (CoaST) was established at the Technical University of Denmark, DTU, as per 1 January 2017, based on a generous donation by the Hempel Foundation. CoaST Research Centre supports development, production and use of high performance organic coatings. Working along the whole value chain, CoaST research activities cover organic, polymer based coating technologies from raw materials over formulation, test and characterization to production and application.

The Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at DTU is a leader in innovative teaching and research, built on core technical subjects and engineering scientific disciplines. The teaching and research covers separation processes, reaction engineering, dynamics and process regulation, process and facility planning, unit operations, heat transmission, fluid mechanics and applied thermodynamics. The Department enjoys very close relations with international partners, and especially a wide range of industrial companies. 

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.