PhD Position in Astrophysics

Radboud University

Institution: Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Department: Department of Mathematics – Applied Mathematics Research Group
Employment: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
Gross Salary: €3,059–€3,881 per month (scale P)
Application deadline: 8 January 2026
Preferred start date: 1 April 2026

Project Description

  • Focus: Developing and analyzing numerical methods for inverse problems in wave propagation, specifically in a Bayesian framework.

  • Part of the NWO Vidi project: “Taming Frequency in Bayesian Inverse Wave Scattering”.

  • Application areas include radar, nanoscale metrology, and geophysical exploration.

  • Tasks:

    • Design, analyze, and implement efficient numerical methods for inverse wave problems.

    • Engage in light teaching duties (10%).

    • Participate in conferences, workshops, and publish research.

    • Contribute to high-resolution reconstruction and uncertainty quantification.

Candidate Profile / Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Mathematics or equivalent (to be completed before start).

  • Strong background in numerical analysis and partial differential equations.

  • Experience in scientific computing / programming (e.g., Python).

  • Knowledge of uncertainty quantification or inverse problems is a plus but not required.

  • Good communication skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.

  • Motivated, proactive, and willing to learn and solve challenging problems.

Employment Terms

  • Contract: 1.5 years initially, extended to 4 years upon positive evaluation.

  • Salary: Starting €3,059 gross per month, increasing to €3,881 by year 4.

  • Benefits: 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, dual career coaching, extra days off (30–41 per year), flexible working conditions, sports & cultural discounts, pension scheme.

  • Research group: Riccardo Cristoferi, Gabriel Lord, Vanja Nikolić, Laura Scarabosio, Stefanie Sonner.

  • Light teaching duties (10%) and integration into a community of 20+ PhD candidates.

Application Instructions

Submit via Radboud University portal:

  • Cover letter addressing Laura Scarabosio

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • Other documents as specified in the application portal

Contact: Dr. Laura Scarabosio – laura.scarabosio@ru.nl
First interviews: 22–23 January 2026

Apply