The gravitational physics group at Nikhef invites applications for a PhD studentship in Gravitational Waves and Cosmology
with an emphasis on signals from binary neutron star and neutron star-black hole coalescences
Nikhef is the national institute for subatomic physics in The Netherlands. At Nikhef, approximately 175 physicists and 75 technical staff members work together on theoretical and experimental research in the fields of particle- and astroparticle physics. Nikhef includes a collaboration between 6 major Dutch universities and the Nikhef research institute. 

The position
Within the Gravitational Waves research field, this position has an emphasis on using signals from coalescing binary objects (neutron stars and/or black holes) as “standard sirens” for cosmological measurements.

The successful candidate will work with the groups of Prof. Dr. C. Van Den Broeck (Nikhef and Utrecht University), and of Dr. S. Nissanke (Nikhef and University of Amsterdam). The gravitational physics division at Nikhef (led by Prof. F. Linde) has close ties with gravitational wave researchers at universities and institutes across The Netherlands, which apart from instrumentalists includes astronomers, astrophysicists, and theorists, such as Baumann, Bertone, Caudill, Groot, Hinderer, Jonker, Levan, Moesta, and Nelemans. There is also vibrant collaboration with individuals and groups around the world.

Requirements We are looking for a candidate with a (almost) completed master degree in physics, in a relevant field. 

Offer
The candidate will be employed by the University of Amsterdam (UvA). The appointment will be on a temporary basis for a period of 12 months and after satisfactory evaluation it can be extended for a total duration of 4 years. The appointment should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). An educational plan will be drafted that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. The PhD candidate is also expected to assist in teaching bachelor and master students.
The gross monthly salary will range from €2,325 (first year) up to a maximum of €2,972 (last year). The salary is based on a full-time appointment (38 hours a week). The total salary includes an additional 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% end-of-year bonus, under the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities.  A favorable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants.

Information and application
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply by clicking the 'Apply Now' button below. Please be prepared to upload a cover letter, research statement and curriculum vitae. Also, please have the email address ready of at least one reference who is willing to send a letter of recommendation on your behalf. The deadline for full consideration is January 15th, 2020.

Further information can be obtained from Prof. Dr. C. Van Den Broeck (vdbroeck@nikhef.nl) or Dr. S.M. Nissanke (samaya.nissanke@uva.nl)