PhD and Postdoc positions, Molecular Collisions and Ultracold Molecules, Radboud University, the Netherlands (Deadline: 20.04.2025)

Several positions are available at Radboud University in Nijmegen, the Netherlands, in the field of theoretical molecular physics / AMO / cold and ultracold molecules.

1) Postdoc in the area of molecular collisions / scattering.
Initially for one year, extendable up to 3.5 years, starting date as soon as practicable.

This project is about collisions between dipolar molecules in external fields, a collaboration with the group of prof. Bas vd Meerakker
https://www.ru.nl/en/departments/institute-for-molecules-and-materials/spectroscopy-of-cold-molecules
and is a continuation of
https://www.science.org/doi/abs/10.1126/science.adf9836

In this project, you will develop theoretical methods for molecular collisions in electric fields.
This is a close collaboration with the experimental group of Prof. Bas van de Meerakker, also in Nijmegen. Collisions between molecules can be used to study interactions between molecules in detail and in complete isolation from their environment. State-of-the-art experiments use Stark decelerators to precisely control the velocity and quantum state of small dipolar molecules such as NO, OH and NH3. These experiments provide a uniquely detailed benchmark for theory.
You will work on the theoretical description, calculating interactions between molecules using ab initio methods and use these in quantum coupled-channels calculations of collision cross sections — using our in-house computer program. The goal is to explain collision cross sections and angular distributions in molecular collision experiments. From the comparison between theory and experiment we learn about the interactions between molecules and their collision dynamics. In addition to explaining observations, your theoretical calculations will ideally also inspire future experiments. You will work with Dr. Tijs Karman within the theoretical chemistry department.

You have

  • a PhD in a relevant field.
  • experience with AMO theory is a plus. Or theoretical/computational chemistry (especially method development).

2) 4-year PhD in the area of ultracold molecules / theoretical AMO physics.
Starting date is completely flexible. September 2025 is possible, but it can be sooner, or later. Just apply!

You have

  • a MSc degree or equivalent in physics, chemistry, or similar.
  • Affinity for molecules / AMO physics.
  • Some programming may be involved, but extensive experience is not required.

For an overview of the research area check out this review
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41567-024-02467-3

3) Postdoc in the area of ultracold molecules / theoretical AMO physics.
Initially for one year, extendable, starting date flexible.

You have

  • a PhD in a relevant field
  • experience with AMO or condensed matter theory is a plus

For an overview of the research area check out this review
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41567-024-02467-3

Salary, benefits, holidays etc. follow the collective labor agreement for Dutch Universities
https://www.universiteitenvannederland.nl/en/collective-labour-agreement-of-dutch-universities

Feel free to contact Karman Tjis at tijs.karman@ru.nl also for informal inquiries.

When applying, please include

  • CV
  • Letter of motivation (max. 1 page)

See also

And for the wider institute;