PhD Position in Materials Science

University of Amsterdam

Institution: University of Amsterdam (UvA), Faculty of Science
Institute: Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) – Heterogeneous Catalysis & Sustainable Chemistry group
Contract Type: Full-time PhD (38 hours/week)
Duration: 4 years (initial 18-month evaluation)
Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 gross/month + 8% holiday allowance + 8.3% year-end bonus
Application Deadline: 1 May 2026

Project Overview

Project 1

Designing selective catalysts for oxidation of small alkanes using air.

Project 2

Developing stable porous materials for gas separation.

Project 3

Researching paired electrocatalytic systems for sustainable CO2 conversion.

Collaboration: University of Amsterdam (Amsterdam) and Tsinghua University (Beijing), with research and cultural exchange visits.

Activities:

• Develop catalysts and materials for sustainable technologies.
• Use experimental and computational techniques beyond current state-of-the-art.
• Participate in teaching (practicals, tutorials) and supervise Master’s/Bachelor’s students.
• Be an active member of the research group.

Candidate Requirements

• Master’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or Chemical Engineering.
• Strong interest in sustainable technologies, catalysis, or materials research.
• Team-oriented, result-driven, and willing to work in an international collaborative setting.
• Motivation to participate in research and teaching.

Benefits

• 4-year PhD contract (initial 18 months, extendable upon evaluation).
• Gross monthly salary €3,059–€3,881 + allowances.
• Fringe benefits: 232 holiday hours, extra holidays, parental leave, flexible home working, ABP pension contribution.
• Opportunity for international research visits and collaboration with Tsinghua University.
• Professional development: courses on teaching, leadership, stress management, time management, Dutch language.

How to Apply

• Submit motivation letter (2 pages max) specifying which project you are applying for.
• Submit CV (include months of experience and list of publications).
• Provide at least one academic reference.
• Send as PDF via the UvA application portal.
• Contact for questions: Prof. Dr. G. Rothenberg – g.rothenberg@uva.nl
• Applications reviewed on rolling basis until all three positions are filled.

Apply