PhD position \"DEVELOPMENT OF NOVEL TISSUE ENGINEERING SCAFFOLDS USING PLASMA TECHNOLOGY\" We are looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate to join an interdisciplinary project at the intersection of plasma technology, biomaterials and tissue engineering. The research focuses on developing next-generation scaffolds enhanced with plasma-based coatings and bioactive functionalities to improve tissue regeneration. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Research Unit Plasma Technology (RUPT) at Ghent University is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research program on the plasma-assisted development of advanced tissue engineering scaffolds. The project explores how cold plasmas can be used to tailor surface chemistry, surface morphology, introduce bioactive functionalities, and create innovative scaffolds that support cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. The successful candidate will modify polymeric and composite biomaterials using plasma reactors, develop plasma‑based coatings, and control surface chemistry and morphology to guide cellular responses. The work will involve plasma reactor operation, surface modification, advanced material characterization, and biological evaluation in collaboration with biomedical partners at UGent and Hasselt University (BIOMED Institute). This PhD offers a unique opportunity to work at the interface of plasma science, materials engineering, and regenerative medicine, within a dynamic and internationally recognized research environment. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: · Operate and optimize non-thermal plasma systems for biomaterial modification · Produce tissue engineering scaffolds using 3D printing and/or electrospinning · Develop plasma‑based coatings and functional surfaces for tissue engineering scaffolds · Perform surface characterization using advanced techniques (XPS, FTIR, SEM, AFM) · Evaluate biological responses (cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation) in collaboration with biomedical partners · Analyse data and translate findings into scientific insights · Write scientific publications, and present at international conferences · Contribute to the scientific activities of the research group · Assist in supervising students and supporting teaching activities PROFILE OF THE CANDIDATE: · Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, (Applied) Physics, Engineering or Materials Engineering · Last-year master students are strongly encouraged to apply · Excellent study results · Strong interest in tissue engineering, biomaterials, surface modification, polymer chemistry, plasma physics and/or plasma chemistry · Clear motivation for experimental and interdisciplinary research · Strong communication skills in English (written and oral) · Ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team · Experience with cell culture and/or surface characterization is an asset, but not required OUR OFFER: · A full-time, 4-year PhD position (subject to positive evaluation) · Starting date: at the latest October 1st, 2026 · A stimulating, supportive and international research environment · The opportunity to work on a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research project · Access to state-of-the-art plasma systems, surface characterization tools, and in vitro cell culture facilities · Participation in (inter)national conferences, training programs, and skills-development workshops · Opportunities for international collaboration and research stays ABOUT THE RESEARCH UNIT PLASMA TECHNOLOGY: You will join the Research Unit Plasma Technology (RUPT), Department of Applied Physics, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture at Ghent University, under the supervision of Prof. Nathalie De Geyter and Prof. Rino Morent. RUPT has a strong international reputation in cold atmospheric pressure plasmas and leads innovative research in biomedicine, materials science, and environmental applications. HOW TO APPLY: Please submit the following documents in one PDF file: 1. Motivation letter describing your interest in the project and your suitability for the position 2. Detailed CV, including academic results (transcript of records) 3. Contact information for two referees 4. (Optional) MSc thesis or relevant publications Applications should be sent to by February 28th, 2026 with the subject line: \"PhD Application – Plasma‑Assisted Tissue Engineering\". For further information, please contact Karen Leus at the e-mail address provided above.