PhD Position in Chemistry
University of Amsterdam
Netherlands

Faculty of Science

  • Degree Required: Master's

  • Working Hours: 38 hours per week

  • Vacancy ID: 15249

  • Salary: €3,059 - €3,881 per month

  • Application Deadline: 15 September 2026


About the Position

Are you fascinated by how light interacts with molecules? Do you enjoy combining chemistry, physics, and spectroscopy to uncover the fundamental principles governing excited-state processes?

Join the NANOCONFINER project and explore how nanoconfinement can transform the molecular environment from a passive spectator into a powerful tool for controlling photophysical behavior.

Join us in pushing the frontiers of molecular photophysics and gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art spectroscopic techniques. Apply today and help reveal the principles that govern energy conversion at the molecular scale.

Using advanced spectroscopic techniques, you will investigate charge separation, charge transport, and energy-transfer dynamics in multichromophoric molecular systems, generating the fundamental knowledge needed to design the next generation of organic materials for energy conversion and light-driven technologies.


This Is What You Are Going to Do

You will investigate excited-state processes using state-of-the-art spectroscopic methods, such as:

  • Ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy (UV-Vis, IR)

  • Time-resolved luminescence (TCSPC, streak camera)

  • Steady-state optical spectroscopy and photophysical characterization

You will analyze your data and discuss them in writing, or at group meetings and conferences.


This Is What We Ask of You

We seek talented and enthusiastic candidates who have recently completed, or are close to completing, a Master's degree in physical chemistry, chemical physics, or a closely related field.

The ideal candidate should possess:

  • A strong background in spectroscopy, photochemistry, or excited-state dynamics.

  • Experience with time-resolved spectroscopic techniques.

  • Experience with scientific data processing and analysis.

  • At least basic programming skills (e.g., Python or MATLAB).

  • Excellent command of written and spoken English.

Beyond technical qualifications, we are looking for someone who:

  • Is genuinely curious about photophysical phenomena.

  • Enjoys hands-on work with advanced laser and spectroscopy equipment.

  • Likes discussing science and learning new concepts.

  • Approaches research with enthusiasm, creativity, and persistence.


This Is What We Offer You

You will become part of an internationally oriented and highly collaborative research environment at HIMS, one of Europe's leading centers for molecular sciences.

The project provides access to advanced spectroscopic infrastructure and opportunities to collaborate with experts in photochemistry, spectroscopy, supramolecular chemistry, and materials science.

You will receive supervision by Dr. Tomáš Šolomek (main supervisor) and Prof. Wybren Jan Buma (co-supervisor), and join the welcoming Molecular Photonics team.

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week will be offered for a duration of 4 years. The initial contract will be for 18 months and, after satisfactory evaluation, will be extended to a total duration of 4 years.

The starting date is ultimately before 15 October 2026.

The appointment is intended to lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). An educational plan will be drafted that includes attendance of courses and international meetings. You will also assist in teaching undergraduate and master's students.

The gross monthly salary, based on a 38-hour work week, ranges from €3,059 (1st year) to €3,881 (last year) (Scale P). This does not include:

  • 8% holiday allowance.

  • 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.


Additional Benefits

Besides the salary and a vibrant working environment at Science Park, we offer:

  • 232 holiday hours per year (full-time) plus additional holidays between Christmas and 1 January.

  • Multiple courses through the Teaching and Learning Centre.

  • Professional development courses, including leadership training.

  • Courses on topics such as time management, stress management, and access to an online learning platform with more than 100 courses.

  • 7 weeks of birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary.

  • Partly paid parental leave.

  • The possibility to set up a workplace at home.

  • A pension through ABP, with UvA paying two-thirds of the contribution.

  • Opportunities to learn Dutch through language courses.


Your Place at the UvA

The Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS)

The Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) is one of eight institutes within the University of Amsterdam (UvA) Faculty of Science.

HIMS performs internationally recognized chemistry and molecular research, both curiosity-driven and application-driven. Research is conducted in close cooperation with the chemical, flavour & food, medical, and high-tech industries.

Research is organized into four themes:

  • Analytical Chemistry

  • Computational Chemistry

  • Synthesis & Catalysis

  • Molecular Photonics

The Faculty of Science has approximately 8,000 students and 1,800 staff working in education, research, and support services.

Researchers and students are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, from elementary particles and the birth of the universe to the functioning of the brain.


About the University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is ambitious, creative, and committed.

An inspiration to students since 1632, it is a leading international research university and an innovation partner.

The University is the largest university in the Netherlands, offering the broadest range of academic programmes, with:

  • 42,000 students

  • 6,000 staff

  • 3,000 PhD students

Connected by a culture of curiosity.


Important to Know

Your Application

If you recognize yourself in the profile and are interested in the position, we look forward to receiving your motivation letter and CV.

You can apply up to and including 15 September 2026.

The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. Early application is strongly encouraged.

Please include the following PDF documents:

  • A motivation letter (maximum 1 A4 page).

  • Your CV, including the months (not just years) for your education and work experience, as well as a list of publications.

  • Contact details of at least one academic reference.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

A knowledge security check may form part of the selection procedure (for details: national knowledge security guidelines).

If you receive an error message while applying from abroad, please try again later or contact us for assistance.


Contact

For questions about the position, please contact:

[email protected]


Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.


Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

As an employer, the University of Amsterdam (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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