PhD Position in Physics (VU University of Amsterdam)

Institution: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) Faculty: Faculty of Science Department/Group: Quantum Metrology and Laser Applications (QMLA) at LaserLaB Amsterdam Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands Contract type: Full-time PhD Duration: Initially 1 year, extendable up to 4 years (with PhD dissertation at the end) Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 gross per month (full-time, CAO NU scale P) Working hours: 38–40 hours/week Application deadline: Until the position is filled Project Overview The PhD project focuses on precision frequency measurement of the fundamental 1S–2S transition in a single trapped He⁺ ion, with the goals to: Test higher-order contributions to Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) and search for new physics Measure the alpha-particle charge radius with unprecedented precision Provide an independent check of the fundamental Rydberg constant Experimental approach: Trapping a He⁺ ion with a Be⁺ ion in a Paul trap Sympathetic laser cooling of He⁺ via Be⁺ Exciting He⁺ with ultrashort pulses at 790 nm and 32 nm (high-harmonic generation) Using quantum interference techniques at attosecond timescales Leveraging atomic clocks and ultra-stable lasers Techniques involved: Laser physics: frequency combs, ultrafast lasers, high-harmonic generation Ultrahigh vacuum and ion-trapping Quantum-state control, laser cooling, and quantum-logic spectroscopy Experimental design (CAD), electronics, and programming for experimental control Candidate Profile Required qualifications: Master’s degree in Physics or a related field Interest/affinity for atomic, molecular, and optical physics (AMO) Team-oriented, curious, enthusiastic, and eager to learn Desirable experience: Experimental physics techniques Quantum technology, spectroscopy, or laser physics Language: Proficiency in English Work Environment & Benefits Work in an international team (~20 scientists) Access to state-of-the-art laser labs and infrastructure at LaserLaB Full-time 38–40 hours/week with holiday entitlement 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% year-end bonus, commuting contribution Optional personalized benefits package Strong focus on diversity, inclusion, and interdisciplinary collaboration Application Instructions Required documents: Detailed CV Diploma Cover letter / motivation letter Names and contact details of 2 references Application method: Via VU Amsterdam application portal (no email applications) Contact person: Prof. Dr. Kjeld Eikema — kjeld.eikema@vu.nl If you apply for this position please say you saw it on Physicaloxy

Institution: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Department/Group: Quantum Metrology and Laser Applications (QMLA) at LaserLaB Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Contract type: Full-time PhD
Duration: Initially 1 year, extendable up to 4 years (with PhD dissertation at the end)
Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 gross per month (full-time, CAO NU scale P)
Working hours: 38–40 hours/week
Application deadline: Until the position is filled

Project Overview

The PhD project focuses on precision frequency measurement of the fundamental 1S–2S transition in a single trapped He⁺ ion, with the goals to:

Test higher-order contributions to Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) and search for new physics
Measure the alpha-particle charge radius with unprecedented precision
Provide an independent check of the fundamental Rydberg constant

Experimental approach:

Trapping a He⁺ ion with a Be⁺ ion in a Paul trap
Sympathetic laser cooling of He⁺ via Be⁺
Exciting He⁺ with ultrashort pulses at 790 nm and 32 nm (high-harmonic generation)
Using quantum interference techniques at attosecond timescales
Leveraging atomic clocks and ultra-stable lasers

Techniques involved:

Laser physics: frequency combs, ultrafast lasers, high-harmonic generation
Ultrahigh vacuum and ion-trapping
Quantum-state control, laser cooling, and quantum-logic spectroscopy
Experimental design (CAD), electronics, and programming for experimental control