Researcher in Mathematics

University of Antwerp

Department of Mathematics
University of Antwerp

Position Overview

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking European university with a strong focus on research, education, and societal impact.

The Department of Mathematics in the Faculty of Science is seeking a full-time Senior Academic Staff member (ZAP) in the field of Mathematical Optimization.

Role Structure

You will contribute to the university’s three core missions:

  • Education (40%)
  • Research (40%)
  • Service (20%)

The role also includes organisational and managerial responsibilities.

Education Responsibilities

  • Deliver high-quality teaching in mathematical optimization for Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in Mathematics
  • Contribute to teaching in other university programmes where required
  • Expected teaching load: 24 ECTS credits
  • Develop student-centred, competence-driven teaching approaches
  • Supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s theses
  • Adapt teaching roles in line with programme evolution

Research Responsibilities

  • Develop high-quality research in mathematical optimization
  • Focus on developing, analysing, and implementing optimization methods for scientific and industrial applications
  • Interest in financial and actuarial applications is considered an advantage
  • Initiate and coordinate new research directions within Applied Mathematics
  • Secure and manage national and international research funding
  • Strengthen collaboration across departments, faculties, industry, and external partners
  • Publish in high-impact international journals
  • Build and maintain an international research network
  • Supervise PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers

Service & Outreach

  • Participate in academic service roles within the university and externally
  • Contribute to student recruitment, committees, boards, and outreach activities
  • Engage in science communication and public engagement

Leadership & Organisation

  • Take on coordinating responsibilities in education, research, and service
  • Contribute to departmental and institutional policy development
  • Demonstrate a motivating and coaching leadership style
  • Support staff development and team growth

Candidate Profile

  • PhD in Mathematics, Mathematical Engineering, Operational Research, or equivalent
  • Several years of postdoctoral (or equivalent) experience
  • Strong publication record in high-impact applied mathematics journals
  • Proven excellence in mathematical optimization research
  • International collaboration and conference activity
  • Experience securing research funding
  • Teaching experience at Bachelor’s and Master’s level in Mathematics or related fields
  • Experience supervising students is expected

Language Requirements

  • CEFR C1 level in Dutch and/or English required
  • Dutch proficiency (B2 within 5 years, C1 within 8 years if non-Dutch-speaking)
  • Language support and integration training provided

Additional Advantages

  • Experience in industrial collaboration, patents, or spin-offs is a plus
  • Demonstrated leadership and organisational skills
  • Strong commitment to quality, integrity, creativity, and collaboration

Employment Conditions

  • Full-time Senior Academic Staff (ZAP) appointment
  • Appointment level (Assistant/Associate/Full Professor) depends on experience
  • Possible tenure-track for junior ZAP (5 years leading to permanent appointment)
  • Competitive salary according to academic pay scales
  • Additional benefits:Work location: Campus Middelheim, Antwerp
    • Ecocheques
    • Internet allowance
    • Bicycle allowance or public transport reimbursement
    • Research starter package (€15,000 + PhD support if applicable)
  • Start date: 1 January 2027 or soon after

Application Process

Apply via the online portal by:

  • 16 July 2026 (midnight Brussels time)

Required documents:

  • Motivation letter
  • Completed ZAP job application appendix
  • Academic CV

Additional notes:

  • Shortlisted candidates may be asked to propose a 4-year PhD research topic
  • Selection results will be communicated after evaluation

Contact

The University of Antwerp is a family-friendly, inclusive, and sustainable institution committed to diversity, equal opportunity, and international collaboration.

Apply