We are looking for a tenure track candidate to work in the field of analytical chemistry of micro- and nanoplastics and other chemicals of emerging concern. Other focal points are e.g. high resolution mass spectrometry data processing, evaluation and integration using novel approaches (machine learning, artificial intelligence) and possibly other innovative research topics such as wastewater-based epidemiology for human exposure assessment.

The vacancy is embedded in the section Analytical Chemistry for Environment and Health of the Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE) in the Faculty of Science of the Vrije Universiteit. A-LIFE brings together the groups of Molecular Cell Biology, Environment & Health, and Ecological Sciences. A-LIFE seeks to connect properties and emergent behaviors across all scales, from molecules to ecosystems, including human populations. The section Analytical Chemistry for Environment and Health focuses on exposure and fate assessment of classic, emerging, and bioactive contaminants in humans and the environment by target analysis, suspect and non-target screening, metabolomics and effect-directed analysis, including innovations in data processing and evaluation.

We ask candidates to write a concise research statement (max. 1 page A4) that identifies and presents how their research plans will contribute to the research portfolio of the Analytical Chemistry for Environment & Health section. You are encouraged to also include thoughts about (how to maximize) the societal impact of your research activities. In addition, we ask candidates to provide a concise teaching statement (also 1 page A4 max.) reflecting on their teaching vision and how they will contribute to the teaching tasks of the department. Teaching involves courses in the Chemistry Bachelor and Master degree programmes, as well as other programmes.

Your duties

• executing and leading multidisciplinary scientific research projects
• develop a largely externally funded research programme in your research field
• develop and promote academic leadership
• teach Bachelor and Master level courses and supervise student projects
• provide high quality training and supervision to PhD students and postdocs
• engage in professional development activities related to teaching
• maintain an output of high quality publications
• on the longer term, build up a successful group around your field of expertise
• fulfil limited administrative duties in support of the strong teaching and research base

• a PhD degree in analytical chemistry
• research interest and academic track record in the field of analytical chemistry for environment and health
• experience in university-level teaching is preferred
• a research profile that shows affinity with toxicology to facilitate collaborations within the department
• excellent communication skills (written and spoken English) and motivation to work in a team
• proficiency in the Dutch language is not required, but the successful candidate is expected to develop at least a passive proficiency in the first three years after appointment

Fixed-term contract: 6 years.

A challenging position in a socially involved organization. On full-time basis the remuneration amounts to a minimum gross monthly salary of €3,807 (scale 11) and a maximum €5,211 (scale 11), depending on your education and experience. The job profile is based on the university job ranking system and is vacant for at least 0.8 FTE.

We offer a tenure track position at the level of assistant professor 2, initially for the duration of 6 years. During this period, performance will be evaluated in terms of teaching, publication record, and acquisition of prestigious personal grants or equivalent project funding. After a successful evaluation based on a tenure track plan and well-defined criteria, permanent employment will be granted at the level of assistant professor 1 (scale 12).

Additionally, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers excellent fringe benefits and various schemes and regulations to promote a good work/life balance, such as:

• a maximum of 41 days of paid annual leave based on full-time employment
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus in addition to regular salary
• solid pension scheme (ABP)
• contribution to commuting expenses
• optional model for designing a personalised benefits package
• possibility to save holiday hours, for sabbatical leave

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

The ambition of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is clear: to contribute to a better world through outstanding education and ground-breaking research. We strive to be a university where personal development and commitment to society play a leading role. A university where people from different disciplines and backgrounds collaborate to achieve innovations and to generate new knowledge. Our teaching and research encompass the entire spectrum of academic endeavor - from the humanities, the social sciences and the natural sciences through to the life sciences and the medical sciences.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is home to more than 26,000 students. We employ over 4,600 individuals. The VU campus is easily accessible and located in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas district, a truly inspiring environment for teaching and research.

Diversity
We are an inclusive university community. Diversity is one of our most important values. We believe that engaging in international activities and welcoming students and staff from a wide variety of backgrounds enhances the quality of our education and research. We are always looking for people who can enrich our world with their own unique perspectives and experiences.

The Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science inspires researchers and students to find sustainable solutions for complex societal issues. From forest fires to big data, from obesity to medicines and from molecules to the moon: our teaching and research programmes cover the full spectrum of the natural sciences. We share knowledge and experience with leading research institutes and industries, both here in the Netherlands and abroad.

Working at the Faculty of Science means working with students, PhD candidates and researchers, all with a clear focus on their field and a broad view of the world. We employ more than 1,250 staff members, and we are home to around 6,000 students.