Postdoc Position in Molecular and Material design

Looking for an interesting postdoctoral position in Molecular and Material design Join us!

Join our team!

We are looking for a candidate to fill an open postdoctoral position in a joint project between the groups of Dr. Alessandra Candian and Dr. Daniela Huppenkothen(both API) and Prof. Wybren Jan Buma (HIMS) funded by the Molecular and Materials design program (MMD Hub) of the Faculty of Science at UvA.

What are you going to do

The aim of the project is touse advanced Machine Learningtechniques to predict the anharmonic vibrational spectra of large PolycyclicAromatic Hydrocarbon (PAH) molecules. PAHs with size larger than 40 carbon atoms are widespread in astronomical environments and are responsiblefora family of vibrational emission features dominating the spectra of entire spectra for PAHs can be calculated using 2ndorder Vibrational Perturbation Theoryon Density Functional Theory derived Quartic Force Fields but are computationally very expensivewhenconsidering the size of PAHs relevant for astronomyand the large numberof possible isomers. This is where machine learning techniques can help.

Tasks and responsibilities:

• You will collect and homogenize the available anharmonic DFT calculations of PAHs available in the team

• You will implement neural networks based on PAHmolecular structureto predict their anharmonic spectrum

• You will test the accuracy of topological descriptors and neural network forthe taskcomparingwith available experimental results

• You will conduct research communicate results viapeer-review publication and at conferences

• You will be a proactive member of the research group and havethe opportunityto co-adviseresearch projects of MSc and BSc students

• You will contribute to creating an open safeand inclusive working environment

Your profile

• A Ph.D. in chemistry physics astronomy computer science or a related field completed uponyour arrival

• A committed researcher demonstratedby previousresearch experiences publicationsand presentations at international conferences

• Experience withusing neuralnetworks and topological descriptors for molecules or materials

• Excellent communication and writing skillsin English

• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Our offer

We offer a temporary employment contract for 38 hours per week for a period of 12 months. The preferred starting date is as soon as possible. Support with writing applications for a personal Postdoc grants will be given as well. The gross monthly salary based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience ranges between 3546 to 5538 (scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile name and level are applicable. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Where you will work

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8000 as well as 1800 members of staff working in education research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works from elementary particles to the birth of the universe to the functioning of the brain.
The Anton Pannekoek Institute for Astronomy (API) furthers research teaching and public understanding of astronomy. It conducts astronomical research and trains astronomers from bachelor to postdoctoral level aiming at world-leading levels and activities.

Want to know more about our organisation Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

If you feel the profile fits you and you are interested in the job we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 10 October 2025.Applications should include a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience as well as a list of publications and the names and email addresses of two references who can provide letters of recommendation.A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure(for details:national knowledge security guidelines).Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

If you have any questions or do you require additional information Please contact:

• Alessandra Candian