Assistant/Associate Professor in Experimental Physics - MacGillavry Fellowship

Assistant/Associate Professor in Experimental Physics - MacGillavry Fellowship

Working at the UvA

Join us!

You are an early-career or senior scientist with a strong track record complementary to existing WZI institute expertise (Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute - IoP - University of Amsterdam). You have the ambition to develop a thriving, internationally visible research program at the University of Amsterdam. This position is dedicated to supporting a female scientist and builds on the success of our Science Faculty's programs like the MacGillavry Fellowship program. This Fellowship program is part of our institutional commitment to advancing women in physics and leadership, consistent with the goals outlined in "Diversity and Inclusiveness: A Collection of Best Practices" by Dutch Physics (2020) and the strategic priorities of the Faculty of Science. The University of Amsterdam is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Working at the UvA

Join us!

You are an early-career or senior scientist with a strong track record complementary to existing WZI institute expertise (Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute - IoP - University of Amsterdam). You have the ambition to develop a thriving, internationally visible research program at the University of Amsterdam. This position is dedicated to supporting a female scientist and builds on the success of our Science Faculty's programs like the MacGillavry Fellowship program. This Fellowship program is part of our institutional commitment to advancing women in physics and leadership, consistent with the goals outlined in "Diversity and Inclusiveness: A Collection of Best Practices" by Dutch Physics (2020) and the strategic priorities of the Faculty of Science. The University of Amsterdam is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

All about this vacancy

This is what you will do

You are going to lead an excellent research program in experimental physics, teach in the BSc and MSc programs, and become an active member of WZI. Tasks and responsibilities include:

  • Actively contribute to the research activities of WZI by joining one of the Institute’s three research clusters and developing an independent, innovative, and complementary research program. The candidate is expected to build strong collaborations within WZI and with national and international partners;
  • actively pursue publishing in high-quality peer‑reviewed international journals, conferencing and external funding acquisition;
  • actively contributing to and developing national and international research networks and other forms of cooperation;
  • developing, coordinating and teaching courses in the relevant BSc and MSc programmes;
  • supervising Bachelor, Master and PhD students;
  • contributing to outreach and science communication;
  • Participating in institutional committees and working groups.

What we ask of you

You have most or all of the following qualities:

  • a PhD in physics or a closely related discipline;
  • a research vision in experimental physics that shows leadership and integrates into our three clusters (see below);
  • substantial international research impact, for example though a publication record in international, high-quality peer-reviewed journals;
  • a demonstrated research independence and scientific excellence;
  • a demonstrated desire for acquiring research resources;
  • affinity for inclusive teaching strategies and mentoring at undergraduate and graduate levels;
  • well-developed communication and social skills;
  • excellent command of English and a willingness to learn the Dutch language.

This is what we offer you

As a member of the WZI you will receive:

Research Support

  • Competitive start-up package including a PhD position. Specific components and conditions will be negotiated based on research needs and academic level.
  • State-of-the-art experimental and computational facilities.
  • No-cost access to cutting-edge equipment and infrastructure across all three clusters.
  • Strong culture of research collaboration within IoP and with external partners (academic and industrial).
  • Integration into the broader Faculty of Science and Science Park interdisciplinary research ecosystem that includes various scientific research groups and institutes, such as NIKHEF, ARCNL, AMOLF, and CWI.

Leadership & Career Development

  • Dedicated mentoring programme including:
    • Senior mentorship from established scientists.
    • Engagement with (female) role models in academia and industry.
    • Leadership training and professional development workshops.
    • Mentorship in navigating Dutch academic culture and systems.
  • Support for National and European funding applications (NWO, Horizon Europe, ERC).

Teaching & Education

  • Opportunity to develop and shape courses within relevant educational programs within the Faculty of Science, including the BSc and MSc programs in physics and astronomy.
  • Reduced teaching load during the initial research establishment phase.
  • The opportunity to obtain a University Teaching Qualification.

Inclusive Work Environment

  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of institutional life.
  • A thriving, visible, and supportive community that provides guidance and mentoring.

Start dates are negotiable. The position will be filled at the level of Assistant or Associate Professor, depending on qualifications. For exceptionally experienced and qualified candidates, appointment starting as Full Professor could be considered. The starting salary will be in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel and depending on experience and qualifications (irrespective of the embedding university). It will range from a minimum of € 4,728 gross per month up to a maximum of € 7,297 gross per month (Assistant Professor, salary scale 11-12), or € 6,512 gross per month up to a maximum of € 8,673 gross per month (Associate Professor, salary scale 13-14), based on full-time employment. This is excluding 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. Hybrid working arrangements are negotiable.

A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

All about this vacancy

This is what you will do

You are going to lead an excellent research program in experimental physics, teach in the BSc and MSc programs, and become an active member of WZI. Tasks and responsibilities include:

  • Actively contribute to the research activities of WZI by joining one of the Institute’s three research clusters and developing an independent, innovative, and complementary research program. The candidate is expected to build strong collaborations within WZI and with national and international partners;
  • actively pursue publishing in high-quality peer‑reviewed international journals, conferencing and external funding acquisition;
  • actively contributing to and developing national and international research networks and other forms of cooperation;
  • developing, coordinating and teaching courses in the relevant BSc and MSc programmes;
  • supervising Bachelor, Master and PhD students;
  • contributing to outreach and science communication;
  • Participating in institutional committees and working groups.

What we ask of you

You have most or all of the following qualities:

  • a PhD in physics or a closely related discipline;
  • a research vision in experimental physics that shows leadership and integrates into our three clusters (see below);
  • substantial international research impact, for example though a publication record in international, high-quality peer-reviewed journals;
  • a demonstrated research independence and scientific excellence;
  • a demonstrated desire for acquiring research resources;
  • affinity for inclusive teaching strategies and mentoring at undergraduate and graduate levels;
  • well-developed communication and social skills;
  • excellent command of English and a willingness to learn the Dutch language.

This is what we offer you

As a member of the WZI you will receive:

Research Support

  • Competitive start-up package including a PhD position. Specific components and conditions will be negotiated based on research needs and academic level.
  • State-of-the-art experimental and computational facilities.
  • No-cost access to cutting-edge equipment and infrastructure across all three clusters.
  • Strong culture of research collaboration within IoP and with external partners (academic and industrial).
  • Integration into the broader Faculty of Science and Science Park interdisciplinary research ecosystem that includes various scientific research groups and institutes, such as NIKHEF, ARCNL, AMOLF, and CWI.

Leadership & Career Development

  • Dedicated mentoring programme including:
    • Senior mentorship from established scientists.
    • Engagement with (female) role models in academia and industry.
    • Leadership training and professional development workshops.
    • Mentorship in navigating Dutch academic culture and systems.
  • Support for National and European funding applications (NWO, Horizon Europe, ERC).

Teaching & Education

  • Opportunity to develop and shape courses within relevant educational programs within the Faculty of Science, including the BSc and MSc programs in physics and astronomy.
  • Reduced teaching load during the initial research establishment phase.
  • The opportunity to obtain a University Teaching Qualification.

Inclusive Work Environment

  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of institutional life.
  • A thriving, visible, and supportive community that provides guidance and mentoring.

Start dates are negotiable. The position will be filled at the level of Assistant or Associate Professor, depending on qualifications. For exceptionally experienced and qualified candidates, appointment starting as Full Professor could be considered. The starting salary will be in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel and depending on experience and qualifications (irrespective of the embedding university). It will range from a minimum of € 4,728 gross per month up to a maximum of € 7,297 gross per month (Assistant Professor, salary scale 11-12), or € 6,512 gross per month up to a maximum of € 8,673 gross per month (Associate Professor, salary scale 13-14), based on full-time employment. This is excluding 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. Hybrid working arrangements are negotiable.

A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Your place at the UvA

You will work in this team

The Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute for Experimental Physics (IoP-WZI) is a leading research division for experimental physics within the Institute of Physics (IoP). Our research spans three clusters that represent cutting-edge science with significant societal impact:

  • QGQI: Quantum Gases and Quantum Information

Ultracold atoms and trapped ions enable investigating and utilizing fascinating phenomena in quantum physics. This cluster explores quantum gases, quantum information systems, and quantum sensing technologies. Research includes studying fundamental quantum phenomena and developing quantum technologies with applications in computing and metrology.

  • QMat: Quantum Materials

This research group focuses on 2D quantum materials, spanning from synthesis to experimental determination and functionalization of their structural, electronic, optical, thermal, and magnetic properties, as well as their integration in metamaterials and optics. Low dimensionality, strong correlations, enhanced light-matter interactions and non-trivial topology are drivers of novel functionalities, which are used to design new materials for quantum technologies and applications.

  • SM: Soft Matter

This research group focuses on understanding and harnessing soft materials with exceptional mechanical, optical, and functional properties. Research spans colloids, polymers, (complex) fluids, living matter, active materials, metamaterials and crystallization dynamics, with close connections to industrial applications and emerging technologies.

The Institute of Physics (IoP) of the University of Amsterdam is located in the centre of the Amsterdam Science Park. The IoP – as part of the Faculty of Science –is housed in a modern building with excellent labs and technical facilities. Surrounded by several national research institutes and with our partners at the Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam, the institute is part of a strong physics centre of international standing.

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

Do you want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

More about the UvA

The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.

Your place at the UvA

This is where you will be working

You will work in this team

The Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute for Experimental Physics (IoP-WZI) is a leading research division for experimental physics within the Institute of Physics (IoP). Our research spans three clusters that represent cutting-edge science with significant societal impact:

  • QGQI: Quantum Gases and Quantum Information

Ultracold atoms and trapped ions enable investigating and utilizing fascinating phenomena in quantum physics. This cluster explores quantum gases, quantum information systems, and quantum sensing technologies. Research includes studying fundamental quantum phenomena and developing quantum technologies with applications in computing and metrology.

  • QMat: Quantum Materials

This research group focuses on 2D quantum materials, spanning from synthesis to experimental determination and functionalization of their structural, electronic, optical, thermal, and magnetic properties, as well as their integration in metamaterials and optics. Low dimensionality, strong correlations, enhanced light-matter interactions and non-trivial topology are drivers of novel functionalities, which are used to design new materials for quantum technologies and applications.

  • SM: Soft Matter

This research group focuses on understanding and harnessing soft materials with exceptional mechanical, optical, and functional properties. Research spans colloids, polymers, (complex) fluids, living matter, active materials, metamaterials and crystallization dynamics, with close connections to industrial applications and emerging technologies.

The Institute of Physics (IoP) of the University of Amsterdam is located in the centre of the Amsterdam Science Park. The IoP – as part of the Faculty of Science –is housed in a modern building with excellent labs and technical facilities. Surrounded by several national research institutes and with our partners at the Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam, the institute is part of a strong physics centre of international standing.

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

Do you want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

More about the UvA

The University of Amsterdam is ambitious, creative and committed. An inspiration to students since 1632, a vanguard player in international science and a partner in innovation.
The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest range of courses on offer. An intellectual hub with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff and 3,000 PhD students. Connected by a culture of curiosity.

Important to know

Your application & contact

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including Sunday May 17. A first round of online interviews well be scheduled at the end of May, and in-person interviews are tentatively scheduled for late June.

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file):

  • a detailed CV including the start and finish months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
  • a letter of motivation (at most 1 page);
  • a research statement (at most 3 pages). Please comment on future research directions as well as your previous accomplishments;
  • a list of publications;
  • a teaching statement (at most 2 pages). Please summarize your teaching experience, and if applicable, highlight any concrete examples of actions you have taken relating to inclusive teaching/research student supervision;
  • the names and email addresses of three references who can provide letters of recommendation.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure (for details: national knowledge security guidelines). Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

  • Prof. Dr. Noushine Shahidzadeh ([email protected], head of the Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute)
  • Dr. Joost van Mameren ([email protected], institute manager at the Institute of Physics)

Contact persons within the three research clusters of WZI :

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
Studies show that women and members of underrepresented groups only apply for jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Do you meet the educational requirements but not yet all of the requested experience? The UvA encourages you to apply anyway.

Important to know

Your application & contact

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including Sunday May 17. A first round of online interviews well be scheduled at the end of May, and in-person interviews are tentatively scheduled for late June.

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file):

  • a detailed CV including the start and finish months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
  • a letter of motivation (at most 1 page);
  • a research statement (at most 3 pages). Please comment on future research directions as well as your previous accomplishments;
  • a list of publications;
  • a teaching statement (at most 2 pages). Please summarize your teaching experience, and if applicable, highlight any concrete examples of actions you have taken relating to inclusive teaching/research student supervision;
  • the names and email addresses of three references who can provide letters of recommendation.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure (for details: national knowledge security guidelines). Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

  • Prof. Dr. Noushine Shahidzadeh ([email protected], head of the Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute)
  • Dr. Joost van Mameren ([email protected], institute manager at the Institute of Physics)

Contact persons within the three research clusters of WZI :

As an employer, the UvA maintains an equal opportunities policy. We value diversity and are fully committed to being a place where everyone feels at home. We nurture inquisitive minds and perseverance and allow room for persistent questioning. With us, curiosity and creativity are the prevailing culture.
Studies show that women and members of underrepresented groups only apply for jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications. Do you meet the educational requirements but not yet all of the requested experience? The UvA encourages you to apply anyway.

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