Coding Theory is the mathematical theory of encoding information in such a way that it becomes resistant to transmission errors. Topics are the development and study of various codes as well as the construction of efficient decoding algorithms for these codes. Coding theory has a strong interplay with algebra, number theory, algebraic geometry, combinatorics, algorithms, complexity theory, and cryptography. TU/e has a strong history in mathematical coding theory with van Lint, van Tilborg, Brouwer, Pellikaan, and Blokhuis.

Coding theory research at TU/e spans from the study of towers of function fields for asymptotically optimal algebraic-geometry codes to the use of codes in building or attacking post-quantum cryptography.

Research within the Discrete Mathematics (DM) section involves Coding Theory and Cryptology (CC, Tanja Lange), Combinatorial Optimization (CO, Frits Spieksma), and Discrete Algebra and Geometry (DAG, Hans Cuypers). The CC group consists of one full professor (Lange), two associate professors (Schoenmakers and de Weger), two assistant professors (Hülsing and Pellikaan). CC provides undergraduate and graduate courses in cryptology, coding theory, algebra and number theory, as well as service teaching.

The assistant professor in Coding Theory is expected to have a proven track record in mathematical coding theory and should have a deep and broad insight in the research domain. This should be supported by a strong publication record and other tokens of international recognition such as invited presentations, grants, and membership in program committees or editorial boards. The candidate is expected to contribute to the research themes within the CC group. Code-based cryptography is an interesting area in post-quantum cryptography and the CC group is internationally leading in this area.

Tasks
The assistant professor is expected to

represent the research area of mathematical coding theory, within the department and outside;

lead and take part in research and education activities of the department and to do outreach to other departments and beyond;

take responsibility in coordinating and updating courses in this field;

supervise BSc, MSc, and PhD students;

initiate, acquire and coordinate research projects;

perform managerial and/or administrative tasks for the section and /or department.

The department seeks to appoint a mathematician who is passionate about research as well as teaching and welcomes excellent candidates who can contribute to the area of Mathematical Coding Theory and have the potential for the acquisition of external research funds. An important aspect of The TU/e's vision on education is that research and education go hand in hand, both at Bachelor and at Master level. Next to research, education is an important part of the job.

The TU/e helps its scientific staff to further develop their teaching skills by offering a training program that leads to an official teaching certification from Dutch Universities (Basic Qualification Teaching). The working language in the department and across the university is English. The level of English proficiency should be at least C1. There is no requirement to speak Dutch for applying for this position.


In particular, the candidate should have:

A PhD degree in mathematics or computer science, with a strong publication record and outstanding research achievements in mathematical coding theory.

Teaching experience and good teaching skills.

Excellent communication, organization and leadership skills demonstrating the potential to supervise PhD projects and bachelor and master theses.

Strong cooperation skills and the ability to work in a team.

We offer a position in a successful and internationally-oriented department. The city of Eindhoven offers a relaxed, multicultural environment, high quality of life and many options for extracurricular activities. The city has a mild climate, and it is well-connected by rail, air, and road links with major European cities. The city is at the heart of the Brainport region of Netherlands, a region with high growth, high innovation, and many permanent employment opportunities for expats.

Candidates moving to the Netherlands from abroad may qualify for a tax incentive scheme, where 30% of your income is tax free for a (maximum) period of five years. Click here for more information.

Salary will be based on background and working experience and according to the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities (CAO NU). An Assistant Professor gross salary is in the range of € 3.637,- to € 5.656,- per month (on a full-time basis). Additionally, TU/e offers a yearly holiday allowance of 8% of the yearly salary and a yearly end year allowance of 8.3% of the yearly salary. In addition we offer a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, flexible employment
conditions, the possibility to participate in a collective health care plan, and other benefits (including an excellent technical infrastructure, moving expenses, savings schemes, child care and excellent on campus sports facilities).

The decision of offering the position as tenure track assistant professor or tenured assistant professor will be made based on the qualification of the candidate. A tenure track position is a temporary position for five years which will become permanent after a positive evaluation of the candidate after five years. All assistant professors on tenure track are appointed with the ultimate goal of becoming associate professor.