R&D Material Scientist Novel Sorbents for CO2 Capture

Are you passionate about innovative solutions for a sustainable future? At VITO, an independent research organization in Flanders specializing in cleantech and sustainable development, we are working to create a better, greener world for everyone - and we need you to help make that vision a reality!

Our Coating and Shaping Technologies (CAST) team is at the forefront of developing advanced materials and technologies for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS). With global CO2 emissions reaching critical levels, our work is more urgent than ever. We are advancing CO2 capture technologies using innovative solid adsorbents, and as a material scientist, you will have the opportunity to strengthen and expand our technology platform focused on smart shaping and surface modification of porous adsorbents for carbon capture.

What you will do:

• Shape the future: Be part of a team that is making a tangible impact on climate change. You will develop cutting-edge CO2 capture technologies that contribute directly to reducing global emissions.
• Innovate with technology: Use the latest in 3D printing, coating and granulation technologies to design porous structured sorbents. From optimizing porous architecture to testing real-world applications, you will take your designs from concept to (lab and further) pilot scale.
• Collaborate internationally: Lead and contribute to exciting (inter)national research projects with top-tier industrial and academic partners, expanding your professional network across sectors.
• Turn ideas into reality: Translate theoretical concepts into practical, economically viable solutions that can be deployed in industrial settings to combat climate change.
• Drive innovation: Identify and develop new, patentable ideas that push the boundaries of material science for CO2 capture, and share your groundbreaking research in high-impact scientific publications.
• Present on the world stage: Showcase your work by giving presentations at international conferences and forums, positioning yourself as a thought leader in the field.
• Collaborate and grow: Work closely with a dynamic, multidisciplinary team of talented researchers. Through regular internal and external project reviews, you will help ensure our research stays on the cutting edge of sustainability science. You will contribute to new project proposals.

What you bring:

• A PhD in Engineering or Sciences (Chemistry, Material Sciences, Bioscience ), or related fields.
• Experience in CO2 capture by solid adsorption and adsorption testing is highly valued.
• Background in material synthesis, surface modification, powder processing, or the shaping of porous structured materials.
• A strong interest in international R&D projects and the drive to innovate in sustainable technologies.
• Experience working in an industrial R&D environment is an asset but not required.

What we can offer:

• An attractive salary package supplemented with extra-legal benefits such as allowances, insurances and a modular holiday package.
• You work at our office in Mol and will have a great deal of freedom and flexibility in your job that enables you to achieve an attractive work-life balance.
• Innovation is our key asset, and we give our employees the opportunity to undertake additional training and keep up to date with developments in their specialist field. In fact, we expect this of them.
• The opportunity to be part of an organisation with an international reputation, known for its advanced technological research and scientific consultancy.
• Together with 1.200 VITO colleagues, you will be part of making the difference in the systemic change that is required in order to achieve a sustainable society.