• Synthesize organic linkers and MOFs
• Characterize linkers using NMR and MS, and materials using XRD, UV-vis, FTIR, EPR, and gas sorption techniques
• Test catalytic performance for room-temperature methane-to-methanol conversion
• Conduct operando spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR, UV-vis, XAS) to study reaction mechanisms
• Collaborate with InCatT on high-throughput screening and optimization

• You have a Master’s degree or equivalent in chemistry or a related field;
• You’re excited to work across synthesis, spectroscopy, and catalysis, and eager to learn new techniques;
• You enjoy thinking critically and independently and contribute your own ideas to the project;
• You handle experiments and data carefully, and keep your lab work well-organized;
• You’re open to learning data analysis tools like Python or MATLAB with guidance.

Considered a plus:

• Hands-on experience with air-sensitive synthesis or metal complex chemistry;
• experience with in situ or operando spectroscopy;
• Background in coordination or organometallic chemistry.

You will become part of a supportive and collaborative research group (the Baumgartner group is embedded in the  Homkat group) where curiosity and creativity are highly valued. We celebrate scientific progress—whether it’s a successful synthesis, a clever analysis, or a shared insight over coffee. As your supervisor, I will offer regular individual meetings and an open-door policy to ensure you have guidance when needed and space to grow independently.

You will have access to excellent research facilities at HIMS, including state-of-the-art spectroscopy labs and synthesis equipment. You’ll also work in collaboration with our industrial partner InCatT,  gaining exposure to high-throughput methods and real-world catalytic screening.

We value personal development: you will receive training in advanced spectroscopy, data analysis (e.g., Python or MATLAB), and scientific communication. You’ll have the opportunity to attend conferences, contribute to publications, and co-supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s students—building both your research and mentoring skills.

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students. The preferred starting date is September 1st, 2025.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and ranges between €2,901 (1st year) to €3,707 (last year). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Promovendus is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:
•    232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
•    multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre; 
•    multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
•    multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
•    7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
•    partly paid parental leave;
•    the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
•    a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
•    the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch.
Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.