
The University of Amsterdam is offering a PhD Position in Quantum Simulation Theory through the EU’s Gen-Q programme (Marie Sk?odowska-Curie Actions). The project focuses on quantum many-body systems and includes collaboration with top research groups in Europe and beyond.
To be eligible for this PhD position, applicants must hold or be nearing completion of a master’s degree in physics or a related field, with at least eight months of research experience in areas such as quantum optics, condensed matter theory, or quantum computing. Strong programming skills, good English proficiency, and a recommendation from a previous supervisor are required.
The University of Amsterdam (UvA) is one of Europe’s leading research universities, known for its strong international outlook and academic excellence. Established in 1632, it is the largest university in the Netherlands, with over 42,000 students and 6,000 staff. UvA offers a wide range of programs across disciplines and is deeply engaged in groundbreaking research, particularly in science, humanities, and social sciences.
Application Deadline: 25 August 2025
Brief Description
- University or Organization: University of Amsterdam (UvA)
- Department: Faculty of Science, Institute of Theoretical Physics (ITFA) and Institute of Physics (IoP), affiliated with QuSoft
- Course Level: PhD
- Award: Monthly gross salary ranging from €2,901 to €3,707 + holiday allowance (8%) + year-end bonus (8.3%)
- Access Mode: Online
- Number of Awards: 1
- Nationality: Open to international applicants (with mobility requirements)
- The award can be taken in: the Netherlands
Eligibility
- Eligible Countries: All nationalities are eligible, but applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 3 years before recruitment.
- Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in Quantum Simulation Theory or related subjects such as Quantum Optics, Quantum Computing, or Condensed Matter Theory.
Admissible Criteria: Applicants must:
- Have completed or be near completion of a Master’s degree in Physics or a related field.
- Have conducted at least 8 months of research in a relevant area such as quantum computing, simulation, or condensed matter theory.
- Possess strong programming skills and good English proficiency.
- Provide a strong letter of recommendation (preferably from the Master thesis supervisor).
- Ideally have familiarity with numerical methods (e.g., matrix product states) and knowledge of open quantum systems.
- Meet MSCA requirements: within the first four years of research career and not holding a PhD.
How to Apply
- Application Method:
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- Send your CV and motivation letter to a.safavinaini@uva.nl
- Apply online via the official submission button (link provided in the official call)
- Documents Required:
- Detailed CV (with months specified)
- Motivation letter
- Link or description of your Master’s thesis
- Name and email of your Master’s thesis supervisor or another referee
Benefits
- A 4-year PhD position with initial 18-month contract, renewable upon positive evaluation
- articipation in the Gen-Q MSCA training network: summer schools, workshops, and international collaboration
- Opportunities to visit labs in Amsterdam, Strasbourg, JQI (USA), and Sydney
- Full employment benefits including:
- 232 vacation hours annually
- Holiday allowance (8%) and year-end bonus (8.3%)
- Pension plan through ABP
- Parental and partner leave
- Support for family relocation
- Access to professional development resources and UvA lectures
- A vibrant and inclusive academic environment in one of Europe’s leading universities