Summary
The University of Amsterdam (Faculty of Science) is seeking a motivated PhD candidate to lead the computational and theoretical track of an interdisciplinary project developing smart, breathable, and self-sealing materials. The project integrates porous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with fibril-forming peptides, combining coarse-grained and atomistic simulations with AI/surrogate modeling to connect molecular-level reaction mechanisms with material performance.
PhD Position in Multiscale Modeling of Smart Self-Sealing Materials
Designation
PhD Candidate (Promovendus)
Quick Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
| Position | PhD Candidate (Promovendus) |
| Host Institution | University of Amsterdam (UvA) |
| Faculty | Faculty of Science |
| Location | Amsterdam (Science Park), Netherlands |
| Employment Type | Full-time (38 hours per week) |
| Salary Range | €3,204 (1st year) – €4,051 (4th year) gross/month |
| Additional Allowances | 8% Holiday Allowance + 8.3% Year-end Bonus |
| Application Deadline | October 15, 2026 |
| Vacancy ID | 15411 |
Research Area
- Computational Chemistry / Physics / Materials Science
- Multiscale Modeling (Atomistic and Coarse-Grained Simulations)
- Machine Learning & Surrogate Modeling
- Nanomaterials, Surface Science, and Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs)
Location
University of Amsterdam (Faculty of Science / Science Park), Amsterdam, Netherlands
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Education: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Physics, Computational Science, Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.
- Technical Experience:
- Demonstrated experience in molecular simulations (atomistic and coarse-grained).
- Familiarity or experience with machine learning techniques (e.g., VAE, UMAP, surrogate models).
- Strong programming proficiency (e.g., Python, C/C++).
- Research Skills: Commitment to reproducible research, rigorous documentation, data analysis, and integrating computational findings with experimental data.
- Communication & Collaboration: Excellent written and oral communication skills in English; open and collaborative mindset to work with internal and external partners (such as TNO).
Scholarship / Fellowship Description
This fully funded PhD position follows the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO NU):
- Salary Progression: Monthly gross salary starting at €3,204 in the first year and rising to €4,051 in the fourth year (Scale P, 38 hours/week).
- Benefits & Allowances:
- 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
- 232 holiday hours per year (full-time) plus extra holidays between Christmas and New Year.
- Pension scheme via ABP.
- Potential eligibility for the Dutch 30% tax ruling for qualifying international applicants.
- Access to professional development courses and relocation/family support networks (e.g., IDCN).
How to Apply
- Visit the official vacancy page: University of Amsterdam Careers – Vacancy 15411.
- Click the “Apply” button to access the online application portal.
- Submit your application documents (CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts, and contact details for references).
Last Date for Application
October 15, 2026
