Summary
Nikhef, the national institute for subatomic physics in the Netherlands, is inviting applications for a postdoctoral researcher position in experimental particle physics. This role is part of the NWO-funded project “Reconstructing 25% of the Universe with New LHC Triggers,” which focuses on developing predictions for dark-sector bound states and performing dedicated ATLAS searches for asymmetric long-lived-particle signatures using Run 3 data.
Job Details
- Designation: Postdoctoral Researcher
- Research Area: Experimental Particle Physics (ATLAS Experiment, Dark Matter, Long-lived Particles)
- Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands (primarily based at Nikhef)
- Contract Duration: Up to 36 months
- Working Hours: 38 hours per week
Eligibility/Qualification
The ideal candidate should possess the following qualifications:
- An (almost) completed PhD degree in experimental high-energy physics or a closely related field.
- Proven experience in collider data analysis.
- Strong software skills, preferably in Python, C++, and ROOT.
- Ability to develop, document, and maintain analysis code in a collaborative environment.
- Excellent communication skills in spoken and written English.
- Experience with the ATLAS experiment, long-lived-particle searches, displaced-vertex reconstruction, or dark-sector phenomenology is highly desirable.
Job Description
The successful candidate will take a leading role in designing and carrying out a new ATLAS search for dark-sector bound states. Key responsibilities include:
- Focusing on asymmetric final states with long-lived particles using Run 3 triggers and Large-Radius Tracking reconstruction algorithms.
- Connecting realistic theoretical predictions with robust experimental analysis strategies.
- Identifying unexplored regions of parameter space and developing signal/background models.
- Implementing analysis within the ATLAS Collaboration, leading to Run 3 publications.
- Collaborating closely with researchers at the University of Amsterdam, Nikhef, and Radboud University.
Salary and Benefits
- Gross monthly salary ranging from €3,706 to €5,760 (Scale 10), depending on experience.
- 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance.
- Potential eligibility for the ‘30% tax ruling’ for non-Dutch applicants.
- A vibrant, international scientific environment with state-of-the-art technical facilities.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the official Nikhef candidate portal. Applicants are required to provide:
- A short letter of motivation (maximum 2 pages).
- A curriculum vitae including specific start and finish months for education and work experience, along with a list of relevant publications.
- Email addresses for at least two referees who can provide letters of recommendation.
Interviews are scheduled to take place between November 23rd and December 2nd, 2026. For inquiries, contact dr. Flavia de Almeida Dias at f.dealmeidadias@uva.nl.
Important Dates
- Last Date for Application: November 1, 2026
- Anticipated Start Date: February 2027 (negotiable)
Apply Link
Candidates can view the official listing and apply here: Nikhef Job Portal – Postdoc Position
