PhD Position in Physics

VU University of Amsterdam

Institution: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Faculty: Science
Department / Group: Quantum Metrology and Laser Applications (QMLA), LaserLaB Amsterdam
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Hours: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 36–40 hours/week)
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Contact: Dr. Maximilian Beyer – m.beyer@vu.nl

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Position Overview

• Aim: Create the first ultracold gas of a directly laser-cooled homonuclear molecule (He₂).
• Techniques: Supersonic beams, laser slowing and cooling, ultrahigh vacuum, optics, spectroscopy, scientific programming, CAD design, electronics.
• Applications: Quantum sensing, precision measurements for QED, study of quantum collisions, benchmarking ab initio computational methods.
• Possibility to explore theory of molecular Rydberg states and scattering theory.

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Main Responsibilities

• Develop and implement laser cooling and trapping of He₂ molecules.
• Participate in experimental design, setup, and data acquisition.
• Contribute to programming, optics, CAD design, and ultrahigh vacuum experiments.
• Collaborate in a highly international team in the QMLA group.

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Candidate Profile

• Bachelor’s and Master’s in Physics or Chemistry.
• Interest or experience in atomic, molecular, optical physics, laser physics, spectroscopy, or optical technology.
• Bright, enthusiastic, team-oriented, eager to learn.
• Strong motivation to work on a novel and challenging experimental project.

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Offer / Benefits

• Contract: Initial 1-year appointment, extendable to 4 years upon positive evaluation.
• Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 gross/month (full-time, PhD scale).
• Working hours: 38–40 hours/week; 232–328 holiday hours/year depending on schedule.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus.
• Contribution to commuting expenses.
• Personalized benefits package and access to sports facilities at modest charge.
• Professional development and training opportunities in a stimulating international environment.

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About the Group and Faculty

• QMLA group: 20 scientists, focuses on precision measurements of atomic and molecular systems.
• Research goals: Test fundamental physics (QED), determine fundamental constants, search for physics beyond the Standard Model.
• Faculty of Science, VU Amsterdam: International, interdisciplinary research environment with strong experimental, computational, and technical infrastructure.
• Emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and collaborative research.

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