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):

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