Call for candidates at the University of Hasselt (Belgium) to a

Scholarship for a PhD in 
Theoretical Chemistry / Chemical Physics

within the Center of Molecular and Materials Modelling (CM3) at Hasselt University, under supervision by Prof. Dr. Michael S. Deleuze (awards by the World Association of Theoretically Oriented Chemists and by the Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium for Sciences and Arts), and in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Jeng-Da Chai (awards from the World Academy of Sciences and the International Society for Theoretical Chemical Physics) at the National Taiwan University. The scholarship is available for a period of 4 years. It consists of a first appointment of 2 years, followed by a prolongation of 2 years unless negative evaluation of the first period. The scholarship is subject to social security. Important computer facilities and a supporting international research environment are available for the candidate (for more information on our research activities, visit the website: www.uhasselt.be/theochem).

Research

The candidate will prepare a PhD thesis within the framework of a project entitled "Quantum chemical study of large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and graphene nanoislands using Density Functional Theory with fractional orbital occupations", with financial support by the University of Hasselt. This project focuses on conceptual developments, code implementation within the quantum chemical Q-Chem 4.0 package of programs, quantitative parametrizations, testings and applications of a new quantum chemical method for studying the electronic structure, spin states, as well as the electric properties of large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, as molecular models of finite graphene nanoislands and extended graphene nanoribbons, taking care of multi-reference (static correlation) effects, of structural and topological defects, of spin-orbit coupling interactions, and of the increasing influence of the basis set with increasing system size.
All PhD students are expected to assist in the didactic tasks of the department of chemistry.

To submit your application, please click on the "Apply through website" button.

Information
Prof. Dr. Michael S. Deleuze, tel +32.11.26.83.03, fax +32.11.26.83.01, 
e-mail michael.deleuze@uhasselt.be

www.researchgate.net/profile/Michael_Deleuze

Diploma

Master (5 years) or equivalent diploma (bvb. DEA) in chemistry, physics, or materials sciences, or civil engineering in chemistry, physics, or materials sciences. Students who will complete their study this year can also apply. 

 Profile

• Specific research interests and skills in theoretical and computational sciences.
• Ability for team work and for solving computer problems.
• Communication skills (both oral and written).
• Fluency in English.
• Strong research interests in general.
• Skills in didactics.

Hasselt University is an independent innovative university which is regionally anchored and has a pronounced international orientation. The university stands for excellence in education, top research in spearhead fields and active engagement in innovation and entrepreneurship. 
The overall objective is to combine academic excellence with economic and social relevance. 
The university aims to widen participation, addressing all talents, and inspires its students and staff to develop their full potential in a dynamic environment.