PhD Position in Physics
VU University of Amsterdam
Netherlands

Institution: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Department: Physics & Astronomy (PCM section)
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Contract: 6-year appointment (0.5 FTE PhD + 0.5 FTE teaching)
Application deadline: 15 February 2026
Contact: Dr. Sven Askes – s.askes@vu.nl
Salary: €3,546 – €5,538 gross per month (full-time, UFO Teacher 4, Scale 10) + 8% holiday allowance + 8.3% year-end bonus


Role Overview

  • PhD Research (0.5 FTE):

    • AI-driven design and optimization of optical and nanophotonic surfaces and materials.

    • Apply Bayesian optimization and computational modelling to high-dimensional parameter spaces.

    • Collaborate with experimental colleagues on optical sensing, nanomaterials, photovoltaics, and spectroscopy.

  • Teaching (0.5 FTE):

    • Physics & Astronomy (0.25 FTE): teach first and second year practicals, coach TAs, develop lab experiments.

    • Mechanical Engineering (0.25 FTE): contribute to Modelling & Programming, Finite Element Modelling, Heat Transfer, and final Bachelor assignments.

    • Obtain University Teaching Qualification (UTQ) within first three years.


Candidate Profile

  • Master’s degree in (applied) physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, or related field.

  • Strong interest in computational modelling, numerical methods, and AI-based optimization.

  • Programming experience (Python, Matlab) and familiarity with modelling packages (COMSOL, ANSYS) desirable.

  • Affinity for teaching, supervising students, and guiding lab work.

  • Dutch proficiency encouraged for BSc Physics & Astronomy; English proficiency required.

  • Team player with collaborative mindset and social attitude.


Benefits

  • 6-year temporary contract with balanced PhD research and teaching experience.

  • Excellent work-life balance and fringe benefits (41 days annual leave, sports facilities, commuting contribution, personalized benefits).

  • Interdisciplinary research environment at the interface of physics, chemistry, and materials science.

  • Strong mentoring, training, and career development support.


Application Instructions

  • Submit PDFs of:

    1. Cover letter (max 1 page) – motivation, suitability, personal details.

    2. Full CV – including bachelor/master grades and at least 2 references.

    3. Written report (e.g., master thesis).

  • Applications via the application portal only. Email submissions not accepted.

  • Deadline: 15 February 2026


If you apply for this position please say you saw it on Academicoxy

Apply

All Jobs

FACEBOOK
TWITTER
LINKEDIN

Argonne National Laboratory

Drexel University

Duke University

Emory University

Florida Institute of Technology

Illinois Institute of Technology

Iowa State University

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

Louisiana Tech University

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Princeton University

Sloan Kettering Memorial Cancer Center

Syracuse University

Tufts University

Tulane University

University of Denver

University of Houston

University of Miami