The Anton Pannekoek Institute for Astronomy (API) at the University of Amsterdam invites applicants for a PhD position in astrochemistry. The position is open to candidates from any country. The institute provides a stimulating, international environment in a city where English is a common language. Of our current PhD candidates, over 70% are foreign and over 40% are female. The position is part of the Dutch Astrochemistry Network.

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The aim of this PhD position is to understand the evolution of PAHs in highly irradiated environments that are currently probed by the observations of the James Webb Space Telescope. Using quantum chemistry calculations and emission models, you will study the anharmonicity of PAHs in higher excited states, predict how the emission spectrum of PAHs in irradiated environments changes depending on multiplicity and provide diagnostics to recognize high multiplicity PAHs in JWST spectral. You will investigate with ad-hoc modelling the photodissociation of PAHs leading to carbon loss, its impact on PAH emission spectra and on the presence of small hydrocarbons.

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You must have an MSc degree (or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, astronomy or a related subject, by the PhD starting date, which will be in beginning of 2024 (but is negotiable). An interest in astrochemistry and experience with quantum chemistry calculations or chemical modelling are beneficial.

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 salary, depending on relevant experience before the beginning of the employment contract, will be € 2,541 to € 3,247 (scale P) gross per month, based on a fulltime contract (38 hours a week).

This is 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? Take a look here.

Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 7,000, 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 Anton Pannekoek Institute for Astronomy (API) furthers research, teaching and public understanding of astronomy. It conducts astronomical research and trains astronomers from bachelor to postdoctoral level, aiming at world-leading levels and activities.

Application

Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application by 3 October 2023. You can apply online by using the link below.

Please combine all documents into a single PDF file and submit using the CV upload box in the application form. Applications in .pdf should include:

• a CV; please mention the months (not just years) in your CV when referring to your education and work experience.
• a transcript of all university courses taken and grades obtained; if you have not yet finished your Master's degree, a list of grades received to date is sufficient (official transcripts preferred if available from your University, but not required);
• a cover letter which includes a brief statement of research interests and experience;
• contact details of at least two referees.

Applications need to be submitted on or before 17 October 2023. We will be contacting only shortlisted candidates on 23 October to request their reference letters to be sent to us via email. Reference letters cannot be uploaded via the application system.

The deadline for receiving the reference letters is 30 October 2023.

We will invite potential candidates for interviews on the week of November 13th.