The project NEXT – Neutron-rich EXotic nuclei produced in multi-nucleon Transfer reactions recently received funding through an ERC starting grant. PI of the grant is Julia Even, Assistant Professor at the University of Groningen. The project will be embedded within the Van Swinderen Institute for Particle Physics and Gravity (VSI).

Within the project, a new solenoid-based spectrometer for multi-nucleon transfer reactions coupled to a MultiReflection Time-of-Flight MassSpectrometer (MR ToF MS) will be designed and build in order to study neutron-rich heavy nuclei. The new setup will be installed at the AGOR cyclotron facility in Groningen. AGOR is a superconducting K=600 MeV cyclotron for the acceleration of both light and heavy ions.

The aims of the project are the discovery of new isotopes in the transfermium region and to study the fission half-lives of these isotopes. Furthermore, NEXT will give access to the masses of N=126 nuclei and transfermium isotopes. The Postdoc will be responsible for setting up a new MultiReflection Time-Of-Flight MassSpectrometer (MR-ToF MS) and coupling it to a solenoid spectrometer.

For the project, we are currently looking for an enthusiastic postdoc researcher. You should have an interest in technical development and building new experimental equipment. Previous experience in ion guide techniques and precision mass spectrometry will be considered as an advantage.

You have interest and experience in setting up a new experiment.

Following skills will be beneficial for the position:
• PhD in experimental nuclear or atomic physics
• experience in ion guide techniques, and mass spectrometry
• knowledge of SIMION or COMSOL, knowledge of AutoCAD (or any other technical drawing software) will be considered an advantage
• good interpersonal skills
• ability to work in a team as well as independently
• good communication skills
• ability to communicate verbally and in written form in English.

Fixed-term contract: 30 months.

We offer you in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:
• a salary of € 3,255 (salary scale 10) gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 4,274 gross per month for a full-time position
• a full-time position (38 hours per week) for 2.5 years
• a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income
• an 8.3% year-end bonus
• minimum of 29 holidays and additional 12 holidays in case of full-time employment
• excellent secondary benefits, including a pension scheme and flexible employment conditions.

Candidates are expected to start in March 2020. The positions will be open until filled by suited candidates.

Faculty of Science and Engineering

The University of Groningen has an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative centre of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Balanced study and career paths in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the approximately 32,000 students and researchers to develop their own individual talents. Belonging to the best research universities in Europe and joining forces with prestigious partner universities and networks, we are truly an international place of knowledge.