Faculty position in Laboratory Astrophysics at Leiden Observatory

Leiden Observatory invites applications for a faculty position in the Leiden Laboratory for Astrophysics (1,0 fte).

What you will do
The successful candidate will carry out a strong and impactful research program in the laboratory, and play an important role in its further development. The Leiden Laboratory for Astrophysics has a strong history in astrophysical laboratory experiments, including both gas-phase and solid-state processes (see labastro.strw.leidenuniv.nl). Furthermore, the successful candidate will contribute as a lecturer to the educational program of the Observatory and act as supervisor of BSc and MSc research projects within the Laboratory for Astrophysics.

Where you will work
Leiden Observatory is the astronomical institute of the Faculty of Science at Leiden University. With a rich history and a leading role in international astronomy, we offer a dynamic work environment where cutting-edge research and top-level education come together. Our academic programs include a Bachelor and Master degree, complemented by a renowned PhD program. Together with over 180 dedicated staff members we are committed to academic innovation and fostering a close-knit, inclusive community where everyone feels welcome and valued. For more information about Leiden Observatory, see here: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/astronomy

Leiden University’s Faculty of Science is a vibrant and internationally oriented environment where researchers and students collaborate across disciplines to expand the frontiers of knowledge. Research at the faculty spans a broad spectrum: mathematics, artificial intelligence, computer science, astronomy, physics, chemistry, bio-pharmaceutical sciences, biology, and environmental sciences. With over 1,300 staff members and nearly 4,000 students, the faculty has experienced significant growth and is situated in the heart of the Leiden Bio Science Park—one of Europe’s largest science hubs, fostering close interaction between academia and industry.
For more information, please visit: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/about-faculty-of-science

What you bring
The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in the development and exploitation of astrophysical laboratory experiments and in attracting funding to support these, and will carry out research that has connections to the general research program of Leiden Observatory (in particular star and planet formation, astrochemistry and exoplanets). Furthermore, experience in student supervision and academic teaching, will be important assets.
We are looking for someone who can work independently. Every job is different, so in the beginning we help you settle in with our onboarding activities. If some of the work activities are new to you, we will look together at what you need, and draw up a development plan. This position is a good fit for you if you recognise yourself in the following:

• You hold a PhD in Astronomy, Chemistry or Physics;
• You have a proven track record in state-of-the-art laboratory astrochemistry research
• You are an innovative and inspiring teacher, with an inclusive approach to education, experience in teaching beyond your research focus, and a strong commitment to teaching a diverse community of BA and (research) MA students;
• You are willing and able to meet the requirements for a Basic Teaching Qualification (BKO) within two years if you do not already possess a Dutch University Teaching Qualification;
• You are a clear communicator and team player, enthusiastic to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries, in both teaching and research.
• You have an interest in supporting the Observatory, through participation in committees and other organisational work.
  
  If you immediately recognise yourself in this profile, or if do you not quite meet all the requirements, but you believe that this is the right job for you, we look forward to your application!

What we offer
This position can be filled at assistant professor level or associate professor, depending on the experience of the successful applicant. Starting date will be flexible.

We also offer:

• An initial 12-month fixed term appointment with a view to a permanent contract and a long-term academic career trajectory, subject to performance. This contract falls under the CLA of Dutch Universities;
• A salary €4728 - €7297 gross per month, based on a full-time appointment (Scale 11-12, assistant professor), or a salary €6512 - €8673 gross per month, based on a full-time appointment (Scale 13-14, associate professor);
• A holiday allowance (8%), an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), and an attractive pension scheme at ABP;
• Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs for home-to-work travel;
• Flexible working hours: as a standard, you are entitled to a minimum of 29 leave days on the basis of a full-time working week of 38 hours; you can also save for extra leave, for example by working 40 hours a week, and in this way accrue an extra 96 leave hours, or exchange 96 leave hours for a 36-hour week.
• Lots of options when it comes to secondary employment conditions; we can, for example, discuss options for a sabbatical or paid parental leave. Within our terms of employment individual choices model, you can exchange leave days and/or salary for benefits such as an advantageous sports subscription and bicycle scheme;
• Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a temporary tax break.
  For more information about employment conditions, see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions

What we find important
Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. Leiden University aims to be an inclusive community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to develop to their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High-quality education and research means inclusive education and research.

Want to apply or find out more?
The application should include the following documents:

1. cover letter
2. curriculum vitae, including either a link of all publications (ADS or Google Scholar) or a complete list of publications
3. specification of the applicant’s three most important papers
4. summary of past research (at most one page) and research plan (at most three pages total including all references, figures, and tables), which should also specify the relevance of the work proposed to other research at Leiden Observatory
5. teaching statement, outlining teaching and supervision experience and proposed role in teaching program (at most 1 page)
6. contact information of three references

If you would like more information about what the job entails, please contact Prof. Dr. Ignas Snellen, Scientific Director of the Observatory, via snellen@strw.leidenuniv.nl

You can apply until 30 January 2026.

A pre-employment screening (references, diplomas) may be part of the selection procedure.

Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.