Are you keen to build your own independent research group in the field of theoretical/computational soft matter and biophysics? Do you want to contribute to societal challenges? And do that at an ambitious and inclusive research environment located in the heart of Europe's premier high-tech region? Then apply now!

Job Description

We are looking for applicants for an Assistant Professor position in the field of theoretical or computational soft matter physics. The research profile for this position is broadly defined, including but not limited to soft-matter related topics in, e.g., statistical physics and complex systems, biological physics, chemical physics, and materials science and technology. We welcome applicants with both a fundamental and more applied research profile. We are particularly interested in candidates who can enrich our existing research activities in atomistic, coarse-grained, and/or multiscale simulations, analytical theory and mathematical modeling, and/or machine learning. In exceptional cases, appointments at the Associate or Full Professor level may also be considered.

The position is embedded within the research unit Soft Matter and Biological Physics (SMB) of the Department of Applied Physics and Science Education (APSE) at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). You will be leading your own research group independently (including generating funding and supervising/coaching students at the bachelor/master/PhD level), while still being able to profit from the benefits that come with being part of a larger research unit and working in an open-atmosphere collegial department. You will also participate in, and contribute to, the development of the Applied Physics bachelor and master teaching program. The Dutch funding system is particularly attractive for junior faculty building up a new group, as there are several substantial grants available exclusively for junior people.

To support you, we provide you with a startup package and access to state-of-the-art research facilities such as a high-performance computing cluster. We offer a dedicated mentoring scheme, and free access to a broad portfolio of training programs for personal development and academic leadership. The TU/e also offers a stimulating environment for collaborations with other research units, departments, and industry. Within TU/e, depending on the research profile of the candidate, exciting collaborative opportunities exist with e.g. the departments of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, as well as with multidisciplinary TU/e institutes such as the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), the Eindhoven Artificial Intelligence Systems Institute (EAISI), and the Eindhoven Institute for Renewable Energy Systems (EIRES).

• A PhD in Theoretical/Computational Physics or a related field, and preferably at least two years of experience as a (postdoctoral) researcher.
• Ability to conduct high quality academic research, reflected in demonstrable outputs.
• Affinity and willingness to teach and contribute to the Applied Physics bachelor and master curriculum.
• Collaborative skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Excellent (written and verbal) proficiency in English. 

We offer a meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station and city center. In addition, we offer you:

• A development track with the prospect of becoming Associate Professor (typically after 5 years) and the possibility of an immediate tenured position.
• A tailor-made start-up package to kickstart your career.
• Female Assistant Professors starting within our department are entitled to join the Irene Curie Program, which includes a substantial, additional, start-up package.
• Free access to high-quality training programs for academic leadership, the university teaching qualification program, research and valorization competences, and a dedicated mentoring program to help you get to know the university and the Dutch (research) environment.
• Family-friendly initiatives are in place, such as the partner career support program to support accompanying partners, an international spouse program and sports facilities.
• The opportunity to focus your career on research, teaching, or impact. You can develop your personal ambitions within the strategic objectives of the university.
• A gross monthly salary of min. € 4537,- and max. € 7056,- (scale 11 and scale 12) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• Additionally, an annual holiday allowance of 8% of the yearly salary, plus a year-end allowance of 8.3% of the annual salary.
• Partially paid parental leave and an allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team is available for international candidates, as is - depending on your personal situation - a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility).
• Possibility for part time employment starting at 0.8 fte.

About us

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow. 

The Department of Applied Physics and Science Education is an ambitious and inclusive department that consists of thirteen research units, each of which is comprised of multiple faculty members who lead their own groups. The research unit Soft Matter and Biological Physics currently consists of 6 research groups (Non-Equilibrium Soft Matter group led by Liesbeth Janssen, Theoretical Biophysics group led by Kees Storm, Multiscale Simulations of Polymer Dynamics led by Alexey Lyulin, Self-Assembly in Soft- and Biomatter led by Paul van der Schoot, Responsive Soft Matter led by Wouter Ellenbroek, and Colloidal Soft Matter led by Janne-Mieke Meijer), with expertise in theory, computer simulations, machine learning methods, and experimental soft matter.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more?
Please contact the hiring manager, dr. Liesbeth Janssen, Chair of Soft Matter and Biological Physics, l.m.c.janssen@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact Josje van Oudenaarden, Senior Recruiter, j.e.v.oudenaarden@tue.nl or +31 643559575.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application.
The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references.
• Description of your scientific interests and research plans.
• Statement of your teaching goals and experience.

We look forward to your application. The closing date for applications is November 10th, 2024. The timeline for the selection process is as follows:

November 10:                    Application deadline.

November 25-29:              Invitations for the online interviews.

December 2-13:                Online interviews with the selection committee.

January 6-10, 2025:          Invitations for the Candidates' Day on campus.

February 2025:                  Candidates' Day on campus.