Postdoctoral Position in Physics

Utrecht University

Faculty: Faculty of Science
Department: Department of Physics
Position Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (2 years)
Hours per week: 36–40
Application Deadline: 2 March 2026

Position Summary

Utrecht University invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to contribute to a major research project focused on macroplastic pollution in coastal seas. The project combines numerical modelling and observational data to develop simulations that support scientific understanding and practical applications, such as optimizing beach clean-ups to reduce microplastic formation.

The successful candidate will work within the Lagrangian Ocean Analysis group at the Institute of Marine and Atmospheric Research, Department of Physics, led by Prof. Dr. Erik van Sebille. The team develops OceanParcels.org and creates simulations to study the transport of materials by ocean currents.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up hydrodynamic coastal flow fields using models such as SWAN, SWASH, SCHISM, or comparable frameworks
• Write Python code to advect virtual macroplastic particles using Parcels-code.org
• Explore dispersion of macroplastic items in these flow fields
• Compare simulation results with experimental campaigns using floating trackers
• Collaborate with a postdoc and two PhD candidates simulating macroplastic dispersion in ocean circulation models
• Contribute to further development and improvement of the Parcels-code.org software
• Participate in fieldwork to deploy and recover floating trackers
• Communicate scientific results to peers, the public, and media

Qualifications & Skills

Essential:

• PhD in fluid dynamics, oceanography, physics, applied mathematics, or related field
• Affinity with coastal simulations
• Strong Python programming skills
• Motivation to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary research team
• Excellent English communication skills

Preferred:

• Experience with physical oceanography

What We Offer

• Collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment
• Salary: €3,546 – €5,538/month (gross, CAO NU, scale 10)
• Benefits: 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, flexible employment terms, partially paid parental leave
• Professional development opportunities and support for training, sports, and cultural activities
• Participation in an Open Science-oriented research group

Application Instructions

Required Documents:

• Motivation letter
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Names, phone numbers, and email addresses of at least two referees

Application Submission:
Submit via the Utrecht University recruitment portal (click “Apply Now” on the vacancy page).

Enquiries:

• Position & research: Prof. Dr. Erik van Sebille – E.vanSebille@uu.nl
• Application procedure: science.recruitment@uu.nl

Deadline: 2 March 2026

About Utrecht University

Utrecht University promotes a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative work environment. Knowledge security screening may be part of the selection procedure. The university encourages applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and perspectives.