PhD Position in Physical Chemistry Time-Resolved Spectroscopy of Multichromophoric Systems

Are you fascinated by how light interacts with molecules Do you enjoy combining chemistry physics and spectroscopy to uncover the fundamental principles governing excited-state processes Join the NANOCONFINER project and explore how nanoconfinement can transform the molecular environment from a passive spectator into a powerful tool for controlling photophysical behavior.

Join us in pushing the frontiers of molecular photophysics and gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art spectroscopic techniques. Apply today and help reveal the principles that govern energy conversion at the molecular scale. Using advanced spectroscopic techniques you will investigate charge separation charge transport and energy-transfer dynamics in multichromophoric molecular systems generating the fundamental knowledge needed to design the next generation of organic materials for energy conversion and light-driven technologies.

You will investigate excited-state processes using state-of-the-art spectroscopic methods such as:

• Ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy (UV-Vis IR)
• Time-resolved luminescene (TCSPC streak camera)
• Steady-state optical spectroscopy and photophysical characterization

You will analyze your data and discuss them in writing or at group meetings and conferences.

We seek talented and enthusiastic candidates who have recently completed or are close to completing a Masters degree in physical chemistry chemical physics or a closely related field. The ideal candidate should possess:

• A strong background in spectroscopy photochemistry or excited-state dynamics;
• Experience with time-resolved spectroscopic techniques;
• Experience with scientific data processing and analysis;
• At least basic programming skills (e.g. Python or MATLAB);
• Excellent command of written and spoken English.

Beyond technical qualifications we are looking for someone who:

• Is genuinely curious about photophysical phenomena;
• Enjoys hands-on work with advanced laser and spectroscopy equipment;
• Likes discussing science and learning new concepts;
• Approaches research with enthusiasm creativity and persistence.

You will become part of an internationally oriented and highly collaborative research environment at HIMS one of Europes leading centers for molecular sciences. The project provides access to advanced spectroscopic infrastructure and opportunities to collaborate with experts in photochemistry spectroscopy supramolecular chemistry and materials science. You will get superb supervision by Dr. Tomáš Šolomek (main supervisor; group page) and Prof. Wybren Jan Buma (co-supervisor) and experience welcoming environment within the Molecular Photonics team.

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The starting date is ultimatelybefore October 15 2026. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The gross monthly salary based on 38 hours per week and ranges between 3059 (1st year)to 3881 (last year) scale P. This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 83% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Promovendus is applicable. A favourable tax agreement the 30% ruling may apply to non-Dutch applicants. TheCollective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• multiple courses on topics such as time management handling stress and an online learning platform with 100 different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• partly paid parental leave;
• the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits take a lookhere.

TheVan t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences(HIMS) is one of eight institutes of the University of Amsterdam (UvA)Faculty of Science. HIMS performs internationally recognized chemistry and molecular research curiosity driven as well as application driven. This is done in close cooperation with the chemical flavor & food medical and high-tech industries. Research is organized into four themes:Analytical ChemistryComputational ChemistrySynthesis & CatalysisandMolecular Photonics.

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 be it elementary particles the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

If you recognize yourself in the profile and are interested in the position we look forward to receiving your motivation letter and CV. You can respond via the red button up to and including September 15. The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled. Early application is therefore strongly encouraged!
Please include the following documents in your application (as PDF files):

• A motivation letter (1 page A4)
• Your CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience including a list of publications
• Contact details of at least one academic reference

We will review applications on a rolling basis and continue recruiting until the position is filled.

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure (for details: national knowledge security guidelines). If you receive an error message while applying from abroad please try again later or contact us for assistance.

For questions about the position please contact: