PhD position in Physics

Your Function

We are searching for a motivated and interested PhD-student, with a degree in physics or related topics or with experience in quantum technology, spectroscopy, and/or laser physics, who wishes to work with us in the international and stimulating environment of the joint Quantum Metrology group at LaserLaB Amsterdam.

This project aims to develop a new experimental apparatus that enables quantum enhanced sensing in trapped barium ions for tests of electroweak theory. At the basis of the project lies a unique high-precision radio frequency ion trap in which single Ba+ ions will be confined and cooled to their motional ground state. With optical standing waves the individually ions will be addressed to drive an extremely weak parity forbidden transition. In order to detect the signals from driving such a weak transition, quantum entangled states will be used that reject external perturbations. Based on measurements of atomic parity violation in Ba+, its electroweak charge will be extracted to test the electroweak theory at low energies with unprecedented precision and search for possible signal that may hint towards new physics.

During the PhD, you will engage with various aspects of experimental physics, including ultrahigh vacuum, CAD design, optics and lasers, electronics, and scientific programming.

Your Profile

• Master in physics or related topics
• Affinity for atomic, molecular, and optical physics
• Preferably some experience with experimental techniques
• Most important: you are bright, enthusiastic, work well in a team, are eager to learn, and motivated by this project

The university encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and is committed to an inclusive academic environment. Applicants are welcome even if they do not meet all listed requirements.

What We Offer

• Gross monthly salary:
  • €3,059 (PhD) increasing to €3,881 in the fourth year (full-time)
• Employment contract:
  • Initially 1 year
  • Extension to total of 4 years upon positive evaluation
  • Completion of PhD dissertation marks end of contract
• Additional benefits:
  • 38-hour work week with 232 holiday hours per year (full-time)
  • 40-hour option with additional 96 hours annual leave
  • 8% holiday allowance
  • 8.3% end-of-year bonus
  • Commuting expense contribution
  • Optional personalized benefits package
  • Discounts and cultural access via Griffioen Cultural Center

About the Group – Quantum Metrology and Laser Applications (QMLA)

The Quantum Metrology and Laser Applications group at LaserLaB, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, is an international research group of ~20 scientists. The group focuses on precision measurements of atomic and molecular systems using advanced laser techniques, ultracold atoms, and frequency combs.

Research goals include:

• Testing fundamental physics (e.g. Quantum Electrodynamics)
• Determining fundamental constants (e.g. proton–electron mass ratio)
• Searching for physics beyond the Standard Model (e.g. fifth forces, extra dimensions)

Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science at VU Amsterdam brings together researchers working on fundamental and applied problems ranging from molecules to cosmology. It has:

• 8,000+ students
• 1,400+ staff
• 39 programs across 10 departments

Research and education are highly interdisciplinary and experimentally oriented, with strong links to industry and research institutes.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

VU Amsterdam promotes values-driven education and research. The university emphasizes diversity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and societal impact. It is located on the Zuidas campus in Amsterdam, with over 6,150 staff and 31,000 students.

The university encourages an inclusive and international academic culture.

Application

Interested candidates should submit:

• Detailed CV
• Diploma(s)
• Cover letter
• Names and contact details of two references

Applications are reviewed until the position is filled.

Contact

Dr. L.S. Dreissen
Assistant Professor, Quantum Metrology and Laser Applications
???? +31 20 59 81068
✉️ (contact via email as provided in original listing)