We are looking for an enthusiastic and talented PhD candidate with a strong interest in molecular physics, in particular ultrafast dynamics in cold and controlled gas-phase molecules.

Within this project you will use state-of-the-art molecular control techniques based on electrostatic fields to spatially separate individual conformers within a cold molecular beam [1]. This approach allows, for example, to separate different folding states of small peptides in the gas phase [2]. These controlled molecular samples will then be investigated using time-resolved photoelectron imaging to study the ultrafast electronic dynamics following photoexcitation [3]. This will allow us, for the first time, to elucidate how small structural changes, such as cis/trans isomerism, affect the photochemistry and ultrafast dynamics in systems of technological or biological relevance. Experiments will be carried out at the ultrafast laser facilities in Nijmegen, as well as at facility-based XUV sources from high-harmonic generation or free-electron lasers [4].

[1] Int. Rev. Phys. Chem. 34, 557 (2015)
[2] Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 57, 13775 (2018)
[3] Phys. Rev. Lett. 117, 163002 (2016)
[4] Phys. Rev. Lett. 120, 183003 (2018)

• excellent Master’s degree in physical chemistry, molecular physics, ultrafast optics/photonics, or a related field;
• experience with high-vacuum systems, (ultrafast) lasers or gas-phase spectroscopy is desirable;
• a keen interest in conducting cutting-edge research;
• a good command of spoken and written English.

• employment: 1.0 FTE
• a maximum gross monthly salary of € 2,972 based on a 38-hour working week
• the gross starting salary amounts to €2,325 per month, and will increase to €2,972 in the fourth year
• in addition to the salary: an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• duration of the contract: 4 years
• your performance will be evaluated after 18 months. If the evaluation is positive, the contract will be extended by 2.5 years
• you will be classified as a PhD Candidate (promovendus) in the Dutch university job-ranking system (UFO);
• you will be able to make use of our Dual Career Service where our Dual Career Officer will assist with family related support, such as child care, and help your partner prepare for the local labour market and with finding an occupation

 
The IMM values a diverse workforce. Female candidates are therefore particularly encouraged to apply.

Are you interested in our excellent employment conditions?

Faculty of Science
You will join the newly established Ultrafast Chemical Dynamics group led by Dr Daniel Horke. Our group is part of the Spectroscopy of Cold Molecules department. We furthermore strongly collaborate with the department of Molecular and Laser Physics and are embedded in the Institute for Molecules and Materials (IMM). The IMM is an interdisciplinary research institute in chemistry and physics at Radboud University. The IMM distinguishes itself from similar institutes by intense collaborations and interactions between chemists and physicists, and between experimentalists and theorists.
 
Further information on Institute for Molecules and Materials