Faculty Position in Chemistry
University of Amsterdam Institute for Molecular Sciences
Netherlands

Within our institute we have two faculty positions in Chemistry available, starting at the level of assistant or associate professor.

Position 1. Molecular Inorganic Chemistry and Homogeneous Catalysis

'Molecular inorganic chemistry and Homogeneous Catalysis' is part of the chair group 'Homogeneous and Supramolecular Catalysis', which focuses on developing sustainable catalytic processes, in which supramolecular chemistry, radical chemistry and bio-inspiration are important themes. In addition, there is considerable expertise in the field of kinetics, in situ spectroscopy, computational approaches and high-pressure catalysis. You should strengthen the Homogeneous and Supramolecular Catalysis group by participating in the existing research and setting up a own research line that fits well with homogeneous catalysis.

The position focusses on the synthesis and characterization of new organometallic compounds for homogeneous catalysis. In addition to contributing to the supramolecular and bio-inspired concepts to guide catalytic reactivity and selectivity, you are expected to set up her/his own research line. You are given a lot of freedom, but there must be sufficient connection and synergy with the rest of the group. Consider specific supramolecular and bio-inspired concepts, but also ligand design for 1^st row metal complexes or catalysis for the conversion of biomass. The use of new tools in synthetic organometallic chemistry and catalysis offers unique possibilities in innovative catalysis research. Furthermore, you are expected to contribute to teaching inorganic chemistry, organometallic chemistry and homogeneous catalysis (including laboratory skills).

Position 2. Computer-Enhanced (Bio)Catalysis

Chemistry in the 21^st century can greatly benefit from the current developments in the information sciences. In particular, advances in computational science, artificial intelligence and bioinformatics create exciting possibilities in chemistry.

Examples include the use of computational and multiscale approaches on reactions of and with large biological and man-made molecules—with potential applications in in vitro catalysis (including biocatalysis) and chemical processes in living systems—as well as the design of biocatalysts and bio-inspired catalysts for reactions with better atom- and energy efficiencies. Collaborations are foreseen with the synthesis and catalysis groups, and the computational chemistry groups at HIMS. Close collaborations are foreseen with the AI for Science Lab at our faculty.

This position, however is open to candidates with a strong track record in related other topics in the broad field that connects biocatalysis and bio-inspired catalysis with artificial intelligence, data science and modelling in chemistry.; bioorganic synthesis with artificial intelligence, modelling and engineering of biomolecules (e.g., proteins), data science and bioinformatics.

Tasks:

As faculty member at HIMS we expect you to:

• set-up an outstanding research line;
• be(come) a renowned scientist, resulting in acquisition of (personal) research grants, high impact publications and invited lectures;
• increase the visibility and impact of your research by active participation in (inter)national public-private as well as academic research programs;
• set-up collaborations with colleagues from the four research themes of HIMS: Synthesis & Catalysis, Analytical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry and Molecular Photonics;
• contribute actively and enthusiastically to teaching at the BSc and MSc level, involving activities in basic education, as well as research-related specialized courses in programs offered by the institute.

You will be selected on your scientific track record and on your vision for future research, as well as on your teaching achievement, qualifications, and vision for future teaching.

Requirements

You have:

• a relevant PhD degree in Chemistry;
• excellent research skills, evidenced by a track record of publications in renowned international conferences and journals, and contributed and/or invited talks at international conferences/workshops;
• a strong background, experience and expertise in molecular research with a focus that may connect current research groups at HIMS;
• teaching experience at university level and demonstrable didactic abilities;
• depending on entry-level (some) experience with the (co-)supervision of BSc, MSc and/or PhD students;
• (the ability to develop) the skills required for acquisition of research funding, general academic administration, management, organization and coordination tasks;
• excellent communication skills in English and (willingness to learn) the Dutch language.

To make the gender balance within our diverse staff even better, the institute aims to appoint at least one woman to the offered positions. Therefore we explicitly encourage female candidates to apply.

Our offer

We focus on early career candidates who can start as a Tenure Track candidate at the level of Assistant professor. However, we would welcome applications from more experienced candidates on an Associate professorship level too. Depending on candidates’ entry-level a tailor-made appointment will be agreed.

The salary, depending on relevant experience before the beginning of the employment contract, will be €3,637 to € 5,656 (scale 11-12) gross per month for an Assistant professor, the salary for the Associate professor position will be €5,039 to €6,738 (scale 13-14) gross per month, based on full-time employment (38 hours a week). These amounts are exclusive 8 % holiday allowance and 8,3 % end-of-year bonus. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

Are you curious about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits like our excellent opportunities for study and development? Then find out more about working at the Faculty of Science.

About the Faculty of Science and HIMS

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 6,500, as well as 1,600 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.

The Van't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) is located at the vibrant Amsterdam Science Park. HIMS is one of eight institutes of the Faculty of Science. With around 140 employees, HIMS carries out internationally high-quality chemical research and provides education within various university programmes.

The core objective of HIMS is to understand and predict the behaviour of molecules in increasingly complex processes and systems. We work on circular and sustainable (catalytic) chemical processes, molecular art conservation, renewable energy, forensic applications and functional materials. To reach these goals, research at HIMS houses four strong sub-disciplines. Analytical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Molecular Photonics and Synthesis & Catalysis that operate all at the forefront of their respective field and together provide a unique synergy for designing, creating, characterizing and understanding molecular systems, to address the aforementioned societal and industrial challenges. The HIMS portfolio reflects a healthy balance between publicly funded curiosity-driven research and application-oriented research with private (co-) funding.

Questions?

Do you have questions about this vacancy? Or do you want to know more about our organisation? Please contact:

• Prof. Peter Bolhuis, director HIMS - point of contact for position 1 and 2
• Prof. Joost Reek,  point of contact for position 1
• Prof. Bas de Bruin, point of contact for position 1 and 2

• Dr Francesco Mutti, point of contact for position 2

Job application

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritise diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

Based upon the senior profile we will only consider candidates with 10+ years of experience after PhD. Applications that do not comply with the requirements set below will not be considered. You may send in your application using the link below.

Please upload the following information in a single PDF file (not zipped):

• a cover letter/letter of motivation (at most 1 page);
• a research statement that includes prospects for collaborations with the four different research themes of HIMS (at most 2 pages);
• a curriculum vitae (including publication list);
• the names and contact details (email and telephone numbers) of two references.

We will recruit until the position is filled. The selection process commences immediately, but will close when a suitable candidate has been found, even if this prior to the final date of the application window.  

Any other correspondence in response to this advertisement will not be dealt with. #LI-DNP