PhD position in catalysts for footwear depolymerization – MSCA-DN SCARPA

A PhD position is available at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU)–POLYMAT within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Network SCARPA – Sustainable and Circular Footwear Training Program.

The 33-month project, supervised by Prof. Haritz Sardon (UPV/EHU) and co-supervised by Prof. Steven De Meester (Ghent University), will focus on developing efficient and reusable heterogeneous catalysts for the depolymerization of polyurethane and polyester footwear materials. The selected candidate will be enrolled in a joint PhD programme between UPV/EHU and Ghent University and will undertake research secondments at Trinseo, Ghent University and POLYKEY.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related field. Strong laboratory and analytical skills, creativity, independence, teamwork abilities and excellent written and spoken English are required. Previous experience in polymers or recycling is desirable but not mandatory.

Under the MSCA mobility rule, applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Spain for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately before recruitment.

Applications must be submitted through the SCARPA application form before 18 September 2026 at 00:00 CEST and must include:

(i) a detailed CV in Europass format;
(ii) a motivation statement explaining their interest in pursuing a PhD and in this specific project;
(iii) an English-language certificate, if available;
(iv) at least one academic recommendation letter;
(v) transcripts of previous academic records.

Applicants may apply for up to three SCARPA Doctoral Candidate positions.

This position is funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, Grant Agreement No. 101227206.

POLYMAT has obtained the “HR Excellence in Research Award”. The award reflects our commitment to fair and transparent recruitment procedures in line with the European Charter for Researchers.

Please note that, because of the number of applications expected, individual feedback cannot be provided to unsuccessful candidates.