PhD Position in Astro-Chemistry

The Anton Pannekoek Institute for Astronomy (API) at the University of Amsterdam invites applicants for a PhD position in astrochemistry. The position is open to candidates from any country. The institute provides a stimulating, international environment in a city where English is a common language. Of our current PhD candidates, over 70% are foreign and over 40% are female. The position is part of the Dutch Astrochemistry Network.

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The aim of this PhD position is to understand the evolution of PAHs in highly irradiated environments that are currently probed by the observations of the James Webb Space Telescope. Using quantum chemistry calculations and emission models, you will study the anharmonicity of PAHs in higher excited states, predict how the emission spectrum of PAHs in irradiated environments changes depending on multiplicity and provide diagnostics to recognize high multiplicity PAHs in JWST spectral. You will investigate with ad-hoc modelling the photodissociation of PAHs leading to carbon loss, its impact on PAH emission spectra and on the presence of small hydrocarbons.

Requirements:

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You must have an MSc degree (or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, astronomy or a related subject, by the PhD starting date, which will be in beginning of 2024 (but is negotiable). An interest in astrochemistry and experience with quantum chemistry calculations or chemical modelling are beneficial.

Salary Benefits:

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.

The salary, depending on relevant experience before the beginning of the employment contract, will be € 2,541 to € 3,247 (scale P) gross per month, based on a fulltime contract (38 hours a week).

This is exclusive 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

Are you curious about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits like our excellent opportunities for study and development? Take a look here.

38 hours per week

Science Park 904