Business developer research group iPRACS

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Department: Antwerp Valorisation & Development - general
Regime Full-time

Let’s shape the future - University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape. 

Antwerp Valorisation and Development (AVD) and research group iPRACS are looking for a full-time (100%) business developer.

iPRACS makes the bridge between organic synthesis and design of chemical processes and value chains. This is mainly applied to increase the circularity of plastics via new molecular cycles (chemical recycling). Together with AVD, the group is starting a new track to strengthen valorisation of research results and contract research in this domain.

More info: iPRACS | Intelligence in Processes, Advanced Catalysts and Solvents | University of Antwerp

Position

• You identify and develop new industry collaborations, building long-term relationships with companies concerned about polymer chemistry, chemical recycling, waste management, and sustainable materials processing.
• You contribute to the development of commercial services and offerings based on the team’s expertise
• You generate project ideas in close collaboration with industry partners and iPRACS researchers, identifying opportunities for joint research and technology development.
• You advise on funding opportunities and assist in the preparation of grant proposals (regional, national, and European levels) to attract external research funding.
• You represent the valorisation team (AVD and iPRACS) at industry events, conferences, and networking initiatives to strengthen the group’s visibility and engagement with external stakeholders.
• You support ongoing research projects by facilitating industry interactions and ensuring alignment with industrial needs and expectations.
• You assist in project management, including coordinating partnerships and maintaining communication between researchers and external stakeholders.

Profile

• You hold a master’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, (bio)engineering or a related field. A PhD in a relevant domain is an asset but not a requirement.
• You have at least 5 years of industry experience or experience in industrially oriented research in chemical recycling, waste management, or related fields.
• You have strong entrepreneurial skills and a proven ability to bridge the gap between academia and industry.
• You are familiar with research funding mechanisms.
• You have excellent networking, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with both academic researchers and industry professionals.
• You can work independently and proactively while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary research environment.
• You have pronounced communication (very good knowledge of English and preferably also Dutch) and mediation skills and are stress-resistant and flexible.

What we offer

• An open-ended employment contract, subject to positive intermediate evaluation
• The planned start date is as soon as possible.
• Your gross monthly salary is calculated according to the pay scale for an assistant in the Contract Research Staff category (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP).
• You will receive ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, a group insurance, an income protection insurance, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Groenenborger (Building V) in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including Thursday, April 24, 2025 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments: motivation letter and your CV
• The selection committee will invite selected candidates for interviews on May 13, 2025 from 1pm. These candidates will receive practical information via e-mail.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact prof. Pieter Billen – pieter.billen@uantwerpen.be

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.