- JOB
- Netherlands
Job Information
- Organisation/Company
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU)
- Research Field
- Chemistry » Computational chemistryChemistry » Physical chemistryPhysics » Computational physicsPhysics » Quantum mechanics
- Researcher Profile
- Recognised Researcher (R2)
- Application Deadline
- Country
- Netherlands
- Type of Contract
- Temporary
- Job Status
- Not Applicable
- Hours Per Week
- 38.0
- Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?
- Not funded by a EU programme
- Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?
- No
Offer Description
We invite applications for a postdoctoral position to develop quantum algorithms to study electron dynamics in photochemistry and spectroscopy. This research is part of our long-term collaboration with the QuSoft Research Center, where we focus on the development of novel quantum algorithms for chemical applications. In this project you will work on simulating strong perturbations of initially relatively simple electronic wave functions using quantum algorithms. The methods to be developed concern multi-state molecular dynamics and real-time electron dynamics. Proof-of-principle applications will focus on use cases in photochemistry and catalysis. The project combines theoretical work, algorithm development, and implementation into a hybrid (in terms of targeted computers) quantum-classical software. It offers an opportunity to contribute to fundamental advances in quantum chemistry.
The successful candidate will join our quantum chemistry group at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. For an overview of our current group and our research interests please check out our group page. We are an interdisciplinary and international group of chemists and physicists working on the development of novel methods in electronic structure theory and their application to molecules and periodic systems. This project offers plenty of space for your personal development, being part of the vibrant Dutch quantum environment and by participation in international conferences.
The starting time is negotiable but should be no later than November 1, 2026.
Where to apply
Requirements
Specific Requirements
- You hold, or about to obtain, a PhD degree in physics, chemistry, quantum information theory, or a related field.
- You have good knowledge of electronic structure theory and thorough understanding of at least two of the following topics: methods for real-time electron dynamics, methods for strongly correlated systems, quantum computing, embedding theory
- You have demonstratable experience in at least one modern programming language (python, Fortran, C++ …).
- You have excellent communication and writing skills.
- You are willing to work independently as well as in a team.
We realise that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore we are happy to invite anyone who recognises themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements.
Additional Information
Benefits
A challenging position in a socially engaged organisation. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. And that is valuable. So in return for your efforts, we offer you:
- a salary of minimum € 3.546,00 (Scale 10) and maximum € 5.538,00 (Scale 10) gross per month, on a full-time basis. This is based on UFO profile Researcher 4. The exact salary depends on your education and experience.
- a position for at least 1 FTE. Your employment contract will initially last 2 year.
We also offer you attractive fringe benefits and regulations. Some examples:
- A full-time 38-hour working week comes with a holiday leave entitlement of 232 hours per year.
- 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
- discount on (and occasionally exclusive access to) theater performances and courses at the Griffioen Cultural Center
- good growth opportunities
- contribution to commuting expenses
- solid pension scheme (ABP).
Additional comments
Are you interested in this position and do you believe that your experience will contribute to the further development of our university? In that case, we encourage you to submit your application no later than June 30, 2026. Interviews for this position will be scheduled between July 2nd and July 8th.
Please send a cover letter, explaining why you chose to apply for this specific position (one page maximum), a curriculum vitae, links to an online copy of your PhD thesis and relevant papers that you published, and the contact details of 3 references who we can contact for letters of recommendations. All the documents must be written in English.
If you have any questions about the position, we encourage you to reach out to prof. Lucas Visscher (l.visscher@vu.nl)
PLEASE DO NOT ONLY APPLY THROUGH MAIL, all applications should also be registered in the VU application system.
- Website for additional job details
Work Location(s)
- Number of offers available
- 1
- Company/Institute
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
- Country
- Netherlands
- City
- Amsterdam
- Postal Code
- 1081HZ
- Street
- De Boelelaan 1108
Contact
- City
- Amsterdam
- Website
- Street
- De Boelelaan 1105
- Postal Code
- 1081 HV