PhD Position in Physics

University of Amsterdam

Faculty of Science – University of Amsterdam (UvA)
Van ’t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS)
Vacancy Number: 14509
Hours per week: 38
Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 gross/month (scale P)
Application deadline: 1 January 2026

About the Position

Are you interested in pursuing an experimental PhD at the interface of physics and chemistry, working on a fundamental question with societal relevance? The University of Amsterdam invites applications for a PhD candidate to investigate how the shape and aggregation of proteins are influenced by their interactions with nanoparticles, using state-of-the-art spectroscopic techniques.

This project is part of a collaboration between:

  • Prof. Mireille Claessens (Wageningen University & Research)

  • Dr. Ioana Ilie (University of Amsterdam)

  • Dr. Alberto Pérez de Alba Ortíz (University of Amsterdam)

Research Context

Plastic nanoparticles are pervasive in the environment and even within the human body. Increasing evidence suggests that these particles impact health, primarily through their interactions with proteins. Despite their importance, the underlying nanoplastic–protein interactions remain poorly understood.

In this project, you will use advanced optical spectroscopy to explore how plastic nanoparticles alter protein structure and aggregation behavior.

Your Responsibilities

  • Design and perform spectroscopy experiments on nanoparticle–protein systems (including 2D and diffusion-ordered optical spectroscopy).

  • Conduct quantitative analysis of complex multidimensional datasets.

  • Collaborate with computational and biophysics research groups to interpret findings.

  • Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences.

Your Profile

  • A Master’s degree (MSc) in physics or chemistry.

  • Strong communication skills in written and spoken English.

  • Experience with spectroscopy or soft matter is advantageous (but not required).

  • Demonstrated interest in nanoparticle–protein interaction research (must be clearly stated in your application).

What We Offer

  • A full-time (38 hours/week) appointment for 4 years, with an initial 18-month contract and extension upon satisfactory performance.

  • Development of a PhD dissertation within the scope of this research.

  • A personalized educational plan, including training courses and participation in (inter)national meetings.

  • Opportunities to assist in teaching undergraduate and master’s students.

Salary (gross per month):

  • Year 1: €3,059

  • Year 4: €3,881
    (plus 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus)

Additional benefits:

  • 232 holiday hours per year (full-time) + extra holidays between Christmas and New Year.

  • Courses and workshops through the Teaching and Learning Centre.

  • Training on leadership, time management, and stress management.

  • 7 weeks of partner leave at full pay; partially paid parental leave.

  • Option to work from home; ABP pension (UvA covers two-thirds of contributions).

  • Dutch language courses and access to an online learning platform (100+ courses).

The position falls under the UFO profile Promovendus and the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU). Non-Dutch applicants may qualify for the 30% tax ruling.

About the Institute

The Van ’t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS) is one of eight institutes in the UvA Faculty of Science. HIMS conducts internationally recognized research in chemistry and molecular science, organized into four themes:

  • Analytical Chemistry

  • Computational Chemistry

  • Synthesis & Catalysis

  • Molecular Photonics

The institute collaborates closely with the Soft Matter Group at the Institute of Physics (UvA).

The Faculty of Science hosts around 8,000 students and 1,800 staff. Researchers and students alike are united by curiosity about how the world works—from elementary particles to biological systems.

About the University of Amsterdam

Founded in 1632, the University of Amsterdam (UvA) is the largest university in the Netherlands, with 42,000 students, 6,000 staff, and 3,000 PhD candidates. UvA is an international hub of academic excellence, creativity, and curiosity, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and societal impact.

Application Process

Deadline: 1 January 2026
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Please submit the following as PDF files via the “Apply” button:

  1. A motivation letter (max. 2 pages A4)

  2. Your CV, including publication list

  3. Contact details of at least one academic reference

If you encounter technical issues while applying from abroad, please try again later or contact the hiring team for assistance.

Contact

For questions about the position:
Dr. Sander Woutersen
???? s.woutersen@uva.nl

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

The University of Amsterdam is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, even if they do not meet every qualification.

Studies show that women and members of underrepresented groups often apply only when they meet 100% of the criteria—we urge you to apply if you meet the key educational requirements and are motivated by the project.

University of Amsterdam – Curiosity Connects Us

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