PhD Position in Algebraic Geometry

At the Mathematical Institute of Utrecht University we are looking for a PhD candidate to join our project Surfaces on fourfolds on the enumerative geometry of surfaces on Calabi-Yau fourfolds and related subjects.

Your job
Enumerative geometry is the field of algebraic geometry dealing with counting geometric objects satisfying constraints. So far, enumerative geometry largely concerned curve counting. This PhD position is funded by the ERC Consolidator Grant Surfaces on fourfolds on the enumerative geometry of surfaces on Calabi-Yau fourfolds and related subjects. This new field has unexpected connections with various areas of mathematics and physics, such as Hodge theory, singularity theory, representation theory, and string theory.

This ERC project Surfaces on fourfolds is comprised of 2 PhD positions and 2 postdoc positions which will be filled during the period September 2023-September 2028.

You will be part of the Utrecht Geometry Centre, which encompasses all the research groups in pure mathematics within the Mathematical Institute of Utrecht University. Our expertise covers a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from algebraic and differential geometry to algebraic topology, logic, and number theory.

During your PhD programme, up to 10% of your time will be devoted to teaching activities within our curriculum. Your work as a PhD candidate will be complemented by a complete training programme within the Graduate School of Natural Sciences.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and skilled colleague who possesses the following characteristics:

• an MSc in mathematics;
• strong analytic skills;
• good English skills, both in speaking and writing;
• it is a great advantage when you have taken some basic algebraic geometry courses or have done an MSc thesis in algebraic geometry.

We offer:

• a position for four years;
• a gross monthly salary ranging from €2,770 in the first year and increasing to €3,539 in the fourth year in the case of full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU);
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University has a number of schemes and facilities of its own for employees. This includes schemes facilitating professional development, leave schemes and schemes for sports and cultural activities, as well as discounts on software and other IT products. We also offer access to additional employee benefits through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage our employees to continue to invest in their growth. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Shaping science, sharing tomorrow.

At the Faculty of Science there are 6 departments to make a fundamental connection with: Biology, Chemistry, Information and Computing Sciences, Mathematics, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Physics. Each of these is made up of distinct institutes that work together to focus on answering some of humanity’s most pressing challenges. More fundamental still are the individual research groups – the building blocks of our ambitious scientific projects.

The city of Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, with a charming old centre and an internationally oriented culture that is strongly influenced by its century-old university. Utrecht has been consistently ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the Netherlands.

You will be part of the Utrecht Geometry Centre, which encompasses all the research groups in pure mathematics within the Mathematical Institute of Utrecht University. Our expertise covers a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from algebraic and differential geometry to algebraic topology, logic, and number theory.

As Utrecht University, we want to be a home for everyone. We value staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and identities, including cultural, religious or ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment in which everyone can flourish and contribute.

If you are enthusiastic about this position, just apply via the 'Apply now' button! Please enclose:

• your motivation letter;
• your curriculum vitae;
• a transcript of your grades of your Bachelor's and Master's degree;
• the email addresses of at least two references;

The starting date is preferably 1 September 2024, but is open to discussion.

If this specific opportunity isn’t for you, but you know someone else who may be interested, please forward this vacancy to them.

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