Postdoctoral Positions in Active and Soft Matter and Biophysics

Are you enthusiastic about exploring the fascinating interplay between physics and mechanics? We are delighted to offer two exciting postdoctoral positions in the Machine Materials Laboratory , and in the Fluidlab , located at the Institute of Physics of the University of Amsterdam.

This unique research opportunity revolves around the fields of active matter, biophysics, fluid dynamics, metamaterials and robotics, combining experimental, numerical, and theoretical approaches. The primary focus of the project lies in investigating various aspects, such as non-reciprocity in soft matter, instabilities, odd viscosity and elasticity, elastoplasticity, and pattern formation within metamaterials and complex fluids.

The specific research project will be custom-tailored to align with the interests and expertise of the successful candidate, fostering a collaborative and fulfilling environment. Together, we will mutually agree on the direction of the research, ensuring it aligns with your passion and aspirations.

What are you going to do?

As a Postdoctoral Researcher, you will play a central role in leading and conducting original experiments, computations, and/or theoretical research within the Machine Materials Laboratory and the Fluidlab . Your responsibilities will encompass the design and construction of innovative experimental setups, as well as the comprehensive collection, analysis, and interpretation of experimental data, supported by the mathematical and computational modelling of nonlinear dynamics. Your findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed manuscripts and conference presentations.

We highly value mentorship and collaboration, and you will have the opportunity to contribute to the guidance and supervision of Ph.D., Masters, and Bachelor students. Additionally, there is potential for collaboration with external academic and industrial partners to further enhance the scope and impact of your research.

Overall, this role offers a stimulating and enriching environment where you can make significant contributions to the fields of metamaterials, and complex fluids while nurturing your own academic and teaching capabilities.

Your profile

• a creative, curious and driven nature;
• eager to combine numerical simulations, theory and experiments;
• relish working in a team where diverse group members combine their complementary expertise and skill sets to tackle complex problems;
• currently about to obtain, or have recently obtained a PhD in, physics, engineering or a related discipline;
• substantial experience in experimental research and/or in computational and theoretical methods for soft condensed matter or fluid dynamics.

Our offer

We offer a temporary employment contract for 38 hours per week for a period of 1 year (with a possible extension of two years based on performance). The preferred starting date is is to be agreed upon by mutual agreement (at the earliest June).

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,226 to € 5,090 (scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.

Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:

• 232 holiday hours per year (based on fulltime) and extra holidays between Christmas and 1 January;
• multiple courses to follow from our Teaching and Learning Centre;
• a complete educational program for PhD students;
• multiple courses on topics such as leadership for academic staff;
• multiple courses on topics such as time management, handling stress and an online learning platform with 100+ different courses;
• 7 weeks birth leave (partner leave) with 100% salary;
• partly paid parental leave;
• the possibility to set up a workplace at home;
• a pension at ABP for which UvA pays two third part of the contribution;
• the possibility to follow courses to learn Dutch;
• help with housing for a studio or small apartment when you’re moving from abroad.

Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here .

About us

The University of Amsterdam is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 30,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fie`lds, connected by a culture of curiosity.

The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.

The Postdoc projects will be carried out within two labs of the Soft Matter Group at the Institute of Physics of the University of Amsterdam (UvA). The Machine Materials Laboratory , headed by Dr Corentin Coulais,  has recently pioneered the field of active metamaterials (see recent articles ). The FluidLab , headed by Dr Mazi Jalaal, is broadly interested in biological active matter, non-Newtonian fluid mechanics, and understanding the role of nonlinear mechanics in active and biological systems (see recent article ). Both labs benefit from an exceptional scientific environment, in soft and condensed matter, biological physics, computational physics and advanced materials.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

Any questions?

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Job application

If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 31 March 2024.

Applications should include the following information (all files besides your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file ):

• a detailed CV including the months (not just years) when referring to your education and work experience;
• a letter of motivation;
• a list of publications;
• the names and email addresses of two references who can provide letters of recommendation (please do not include any reference letters yourself in your application, we will contact them ourselves when you are shotlisted)

A knowledge security check can be part of the selection procedure.
(for details: national knowledge security guidelines )

Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

No agencies please.