Postdoc in Theory and Gravitational Wave Probes of Dense Matter Physics (1.0 FTE)

The Institute for Theoretical Physics (ITP) at Utrecht University is currently looking for a postdoctoral researcher at the interface of theoretical advances in relativistic hydrodynamics with gravitational waves from neutron star binaries. You are going to work in the group of Tanja Hinderer and become member of the interdisciplinary Dutch consortium ‘Probing the phase diagram of quantum chromodynamics’. This is a collaboration of Utrecht University (Profs. Gürsoy, van den Broeck, Snellings, Christakoglou), the University of Amsterdam (Profs. Watts, Nissanke, Mösta) and the University of Groningen (Dr Even).
In this position you will focus your work on the development of an overarching theoretical framework for relativistic (magneto-)hydrodynamics of dissipative multi-fluid systems. You will include sufficient complexity to encompass a range of physical effects and study consequences for gravitational waves from neutron star binary inspirals.

We are looking for a candidate who is enthusiastic and dedicated and who preferably:

• holds a PhD degree in physics or a related field by the starting date of the employment;
• has strong written and oral communication skills in English;
• has a strong motivation for multidisciplinary research;
• relevant expertise with dissipative multi-fluid systems, neutron star microphysics, and signatures of matter physics in gravitational waves is a plus.

We offer a temporary position (1.0 FTE) for three years in an international working environment. The gross salary - depending on previous qualifications and experience  - ranges between €2,960 and €4,670 (scale 10 according to the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities) per month for a full-time employment. Salaries are supplemented with a holiday bonus of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3% per year.
In addition, Utrecht University offers excellent secondary conditions , including an attractive retirement scheme, (partly paid) parental leave and flexible employment conditions (multiple choice model). For more information, please visit working at Utrecht University .
Are you an international applicant? Then do have a look for more information about what our International Service Desk does and for the what and how on living in the Netherlands .

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University , the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major societal themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Sustainability.
At the Faculty of Science there are 6 departments to make a fundamental connection with: Biology, Chemistry, Information and Computing Sciences, Mathematics, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Physics. Each of these is made up of distinct institutes which work together to focus on answering some of humanity’s most pressing problems. More fundamental still are the individual research groups – the building blocks of our ambitious scientific projects.
Theoretical physics uses concepts and methods encoded in mathematical language to explain physical reality. At the Institute for Theoretical Physics , we study physical systems on every scale, ranging from the very small - quantum correction to gravity - to the largest possible scale - the universe. In between these extremes lie quantum and soft-condensed matter, which study the emergent properties of many-body systems. In theoretical physics, we aim to find answers to some of the most fundamental questions about our world and our existence.

For more information about this position, please contact Tanja Hinderer , via [email protected] .
Do you have a question about the application procedure? Please send an email to [email protected] .

Everyone deserves to feel at home at our university. We welcome employees with a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives.
To apply, please submit your application materials via the ‘apply’ button by Dec. 5, 2022.  Please enclose:

• your Curriculum Vitae including contact details of three referees;
• a cover letter;
• a research statement where your background, research experience and interests are described;
• Reference letters from three referees. 

If this specific opportunity is not for you, but you know someone else who may be interested, please forward this vacancy to them.