PhD candidate Random histogram limits and exact quantum field theories

The Korteweg – de Vries Institute of the Faculty of Science is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position (4 years) for the research project: Random histogram limits and exact quantum field theories

The mathematical definition of probability distributions for random functions, measures or distributions is not straight-forward. Random functions are defined with the help of Kolmogorov’s existence theorem, but for more involved objects, like measures or distributions, the range of options is much more narrow. Based on recently developed methods for the construction of random probability and signed measures as limits of refining hierarchies of random histograms, this proposal aims to prove existence theorems for histogram limits in spaces of distributions and more involved weak dual spaces. The main applications include proofs of existence and exact renormalization of interacting quantum field theories in four dimensions.

The project is funded through a FNWI stimulus-grant “Random histogram limits and random distributions" of dr. B.(Bastiaan) J.K.Kleijn.

What are you going to do?

Tasks and responsibilities:

• conduct research within (or related to) the research areas as outlined above.
• participate in relevant seminars and engage with research collaborations locally and/or internationally.
• collaborate with international and local researchers;
• participate in the Faculty of Science PhD training programme;
• assist in teaching undergraduates and Master students;
• complete and defend a PhD thesis within the official appointment duration of four years;

Your experience and profile

You are/have:

• a Master degree in Mathematics or theoretical physics;
• a familiarity with any/all of the fields of stochastic processes, topology, functional analysis;
• a demonstrable affinity with theoretical physics;
• fluent in English, both written and spoken;
• experience in teaching is a plus.

Our offer

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). The preferred starting date is 1 September 2024. 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 € 2,770 in the first year to € 3,539 in the last year (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.

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 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 .

Any questions?

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

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 fields, 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.

Institute/Department

The Korteweg-de Vries Instituut voor Wiskunde (KdV Institute) is the mathematical research institute of the Faculty of Science of the Universiteit van Amsterdam. The KdV Institute offers a stimulating scientific environment in which research focuses mainly within the research programmes (1) Algebra, Geometry and Mathematical Physics, (2) Pure, Applied and Numerical Analysis, and (3) Stochastics. It also provides the lecturers and instructors for the mathematics teaching within the Science faculty. The KdV Institute participates in the NWO research clusters GQT, STAR, NDNS+ and DIAMANT and in the Gravity programme NETWORKS. There is formal (and informal) cooperation with the Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (CWI), the VU University, and with Eurandom in Eindhoven. KdVI counts about 30 staff members and 40 postdocs and PhD students.  

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

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 1 May 2024.

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

• a motivation letter and CV, please mention the months (not just years) in your CV when referring to your education and work experience,
• a copy of your Master’s thesis (when available),
• a list of all university courses taken, including a transcript of grades,
• the name and contact details (including email address) of two referees who can provide details about your profile (one of whom should be the main supervisor of your Master thesis).

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 interviews will be held in the course of month May 2024.

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