Assistant Professor of Earth Sciences

Utrecht University

Institution: Utrecht University, Faculty of Geosciences
Department: Earth Sciences
Contract Type: 0.8–1.0 FTE, 18-month initial contract, with potential permanent appointment
Working Hours: 32–40 hours/week
Salary: €4,728 – €6,433 gross/month (scale 11, full-time) + 8% holiday pay + 8.3% year-end bonus
Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Preferred Start Date: 1 September 2026

Role Overview

The department seeks an expert in earth materials/mineral science to:

• Develop an independent research line in Earth Materials Science that complements current department strengths.
• Apply earth material science knowledge to modern societal challenges (e.g., energy storage, CO₂ capture, radionuclide storage, weathering of concrete/monuments, transformation of asbestos).
• Conduct multi- and interdisciplinary research aligned with department themes: Sustainable Use of the Subsurface, Natural Hazards, and Planetary Health & Environment.
• Facilitate access to state-of-the-art labs through European collaborations.

Teaching Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver courses in BSc and MSc programs (core geological courses, advanced mineralogy).
• Supervise student projects and potentially contribute to field teaching.
• Expected contribution: ~40% teaching, 40% research, 20% other activities (management, committees).

Candidate Requirements

Essential:

• PhD in Solid Earth Sciences or relevant natural sciences.
• Recognized expertise in Earth materials/mineral science.
• Minimum 2–3 years postdoctoral experience.
• Strong academic research record (high-quality publications).
• Experience obtaining research grants.
• Strong teaching and mentorship skills (BSc, MSc, PhD students).
• English proficiency C1 level; willingness to acquire Dutch language skills for practical teaching within 2 years.
• Excellent communication, networking, and organizational skills.

Desirable:

• Interest in public outreach.
• Multi- and interdisciplinary research orientation.
• Vision for long-term research impact and contribution to societal challenges.

Application Process

Include in your application:

1. Letter of motivation.
2. Research and teaching vision/plans for the next 5 years (max. 3 pages).
3. Curriculum vitae (including teaching experience and list of publications).
4. Names and email addresses of two referees.

Selection Process:

• Shortlisted candidates may give an oral presentation of research and teaching vision.
• May include a short lecture to students/staff.
• Online screening may be part of the process.

Contacts for Information (not applications):

• Dr Suzanne Hangx (Chair Search Committee): s.j.t.hangx@uu.nl
• Prof Dr Jack Middelburg (Head of Department): j.b.m.middelburg@uu.nl

About the Faculty & Department

• Faculty of Geosciences: ~3,400 students, 720 staff.
• Department of Earth Sciences: largest Earth Sciences institute in the Netherlands, 50+ tenured scientists, 110+ PhD/postdocs.
• State-of-the-art labs: Electron Microscopy Centre, Paleomagnetic Laboratory, Geolab, Earth Simulation Laboratory.
• Focus: full range of solid Earth & environmental Earth sciences; strong international collaboration.

Location: Utrecht Science Park, accessible city centre, vibrant cultural environment.

Apply