"PhD in Time-Resolved Spectroscopy of Functional Organic Molecules"

Job Description

Are you fascinated by how molecules harvest and manipulate light? Are you excited about discovering the ultrafast world of functional organic molecules? Join our team and explore the fascinating universe of molecular photochemistry using cutting-edge time-resolved spectroscopy. If you’re thrilled by the idea of uncovering new principles at the frontier of light–matter interactions, we’d love to hear from you. Apply and launch your research career with us!

Join our team!

Molecular Photonics group at the Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences invites applicants for PhD position in ultrafast time-resolved spectroscopy of functional organic molecules. You will drive a project where you will uncover how nanoconfinement controls energy and electron transfer processes by using state-of-the-art time-resolved spectroscopy. The position is open to curiosity-driven, committed applicants from any country. The team of Molecular Photonics provides a stimulating, international environment that offers immense potential for professional and personal growth.

This is what you are going to do

• You will contribute to the research of the Molecular Photonics group by conducting optical time-resolved spectroscopy (UV-Vis, IR, fluorescence) on samples of functional organic molecules in solutions and in the solid state.
• You will operate the optical setups, prepare samples, and collect the data.
• You will be responsible for processing and analysing the acquired data, and creating kinetic models.
• You will collaborate with your colleagues, discuss and present your results, and compose reports and scientific publications.

This is what we ask of you

• A candidate with a recent MSc degree in physical chemistry, chemical engineering or related field with excellent track record (research, grades, etc.).
• Prior hands-on laboratory experience with spectroscopy, as well as a robust foundation in physical chemistry or chemical physics.
• The ideal candidate should demonstrate a solid understanding of time-resolved optical spectroscopy (UV-Vis, IR, fluorescence).
• Prior experience with writing code in languages such as Matlab or Python is important.

This is what we offer you

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 preferred starting date is ultimately 1 February 2026.

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and ranges between €3,059 (1st year) to €3,881 (last year), scale P. This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 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.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• partly paid parental leave;
• the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch.

This is where you will work

You will work at the Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), one of eight institutes of the University of Amsterdam (UvA) Faculty of Science. HIMS performs internationally recognized chemistry and molecular research, curiosity driven as well as application driven. This is done in close cooperation with the chemical, flavor & food, medical and high-tech industries. Research is organized into four themes: Analytical Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Synthesis & Catalysis and Molecular Photonics.

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 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.

Application Instructions

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 respond via the red button up to and including 12 December 2025.

Please include the following documents in your application (as PDF files):

• A motivation letter (max. 2 pages A4)
• Your CV, including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience, including a list of publications
• One page (A4) summary of prior research experience that involves spectroscopy
• Contact details of at least one academic reference

We will review applications on a rolling basis and continue recruiting until the position is filled.

A knowledge security check can be 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.

For questions about the position, please contact: Dr. Tomáš Šolomek, solomekgroup@gmail.com