PhD in MOF Thin Films at KU Leuven – Apply Now86 Views

The upcoming 2025 doctoral opportunity at KU Leuven—one of Europe’s premier research institutions—offers a prestigious platform for early-career scientists to engage in high-impact research on Metal Organic Framework (MOF) films. This PhD project is situated at the intersection of advanced materials science and microfabrication, enabling novel applications in chemical sensing and next-generation lithography.

PhD Position in Metal-Organic Films for Sensing & Lithography – KU Leuven 2025–2029

Hosted within the Ameloot research group at KU Leuven’s Department of Chemistry, the position leverages world-class infrastructure, including clean room facilities and the Leuven Nanocenter. The program is designed for ambitious graduates seeking full-time, funded PhD training and provides a pathway to both academic and industry careers.

This article provides a comprehensive guide for applicants, including eligibility, funding details, research themes, and application strategies.

About the PhD Position at KU Leuven

Program Overview

• Title: PhD Position: Metal Organic Films for Sensing & Lithography
• Application Status: Open for the 2025–2029 PhD cycle
• Duration: 4 years (initial contract for 1 year, renewable annually)
• Mode: Full-time, on-site (Leuven campus)

Project Objectives

The PhD project targets two cutting-edge applications:

1. High-resolution chemical sensing, utilizing selective diffusion kinetics of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) through MOF films.
2. MOF patterning for EUV and direct-beam lithography,
   enabling scalable microfabrication techniques.

The research integrates MOF synthesis, deposition, sensor microfabrication, and photolithography within a multidisciplinary framework. The selected candidate will also contribute to the ERC-funded “KISSIES” project on smart sensor platforms.

Core Research Focus

• Deposition and characterization of MOF thin films
• Micro hotplate-based sensor integration
• VOC-specific kinetic diffusion studies
• Patterning MOF layers for advanced lithographic techniques
• Cross-functional collaboration within Chem & Tech and Nano research groups

Eligibility Criteria

Academic Background

• A completed or soon-to-be-completed Master’s degree in one of the following:
  • Materials Chemistry
  • Materials Engineering
  • Chemical Physics
  • Physics Engineering
  • Or a closely related field

Professional Experience

• Prior work or academic exposure in any of the following is highly desirable:
  • Clean room-based fabrication
  • Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) or Molecular Layer Deposition (MLD)
  • Thin film measurement and electrical characterization

Language Requirements

• Proficient English skills, both written and spoken. The research and teaching environment is predominantly English-speaking.

Additional Competencies

• A solution-driven mindset with a practical, “maker-style” approach to problem-solving
• Strong interpersonal skills
  and a collaborative outlook
• An interest in translational research or potential commercialization is a plus

Application Process

1. Visit the official job listing via the KU Leuven portal (Ref: BAP 2025 319).
2. Log in or create a new applicant profile on the KU Leuven HR platform.
3. Complete the online form with accurate academic and personal data.
4. Upload all mandatory documents (see next section).
5. Submit the application no later than July 1, 2025, at 23:59 CET.
6. For issues or clarifications, email: [email protected].

Apply Now: KU Leuven Application Portal

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following materials:

• CV/Resume: Academic and research profile with detailed project/research contributions
• Cover Letter: Motivation for joining MOF-related research in sensing and lithography
• Academic Transcripts & Diplomas: All post-secondary education records
• Proof of Experience: Publications, lab reports, or certificates related to MOFs, clean room work, or thin film characterization
• Language Proficiency Tests: IELTS/TOEFL (if applicable)
• ID Proof: Passport or national identity card
• Optional: Statement outlining technology transfer interests
• Declarations: Any forms mandated by KU Leuven’s application portal

Fields of Study / Research Areas Supported

The position bridges multiple scientific domains:

• Metal Organic Framework (MOF) films
• Deposition techniques: ALD and MLD
• Ellipsometry and spectroscopic analysis
• Microfabrication
  and clean room engineering
• VOC sensor development
• Photolithographic patterning using EUV or direct-beam methods
• Collaborative research within the ERC-backed “KISSIES” program

Financial Benefits

Candidates appointed to the position will receive:

• A full-time employment contract for 4 years (annual renewal)
• Competitive salary and benefits aligned with KU Leuven’s PhD salary scale
• Full healthcare and social security coverage in Belgium
• Access to high-end infrastructure including clean rooms and nanotech labs
• Funded travel, materials, and research consumables budget
• Doctoral training and networking opportunities via the Arenberg Doctoral School
• Quality of life in Leuven, a student-friendly, international city near Brussels

Selection Process

Evaluation Stages

1. Initial Review
   • Evaluation of educational background, document quality, and alignment with project goals
2. Interview
   • Shortlisted candidates will participate in an interview which may include a technical presentation
3. Final Selection
   • Candidates are chosen based on technical aptitude, motivation, and potential for interdisciplinary contribution

Timeline

• Deadline: July 1, 2025
• Interview Period: Mid-July to August 2025
• Final Notification: Late August or early September
• Start Date: Preferably Autumn 2025 (flexible based on availability)

Application Timeline Overview

Tips for a Strong Application

Writing an Effective Cover Letter

• Express genuine interest in MOF sensing and lithography
• Mention techniques like ALD, ellipsometry, or micro hotplate fabrication
• Reference alignment with the KISSIES ERC project

Crafting an Academic CV

• Showcase hands-on experience: deposition systems, clean room workflows
• List peer-reviewed papers, posters, and technical contributions
• Maintain clear formatting and professional fonts

Obtaining Strong Recommendations

• Request letters from supervisors familiar with your research and collaborative style
• Guide them to emphasize alignment with KU Leuven’s interdisciplinary focus

Demonstrating Technical Skills

• Attach brief portfolios or documentation showing skills in MOFs, patterning, or deposition techniques
• Applicants from adjacent fields should clarify their interdisciplinary relevance

Contact Information

For academic queries:

• Prof. Rob Ameloot
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Subject Line: “PhD position: Metal-organic films for sensing and lithography”

For technical or portal-related support:

• KU Leuven HR Support
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Helpdesk: Access via official KU Leuven job portal

Conclusion

The KU Leuven PhD opportunity in Metal Organic Films for Sensing and Lithography offers aspiring researchers a robust and interdisciplinary training environment. Encompassing advanced MOF material development, sensor integration, and EUV lithographic techniques, the project provides a springboard into academic excellence and industry readiness.

Positioned within a highly collaborative ecosystem and supported by the ERC-funded KISSIES initiative, the role offers significant career development potential. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply by July 1, 2025 (23:59 CET) and initiate correspondence with the lead investigator to tailor their application.

Quick Reference Summary

Source: KU Leuven jobsite – PhD Position in Metal-organic Films for Sensing and Lithography

FAQs