PhD Position in Gravitational Wave Research at University of Amsterdam

GRAPPA, the center of excellence in Astroparticle Physics of the University of Amsterdam (UvA), is a joint effort between the Institute of Physics (IoP) and the Anton Pannekoek Institute (API). It consists of faculty members with a strong interest in experimental and theoretical research into black holes, cosmic rays, neutrinos, dark matter, dark energy, early universe cosmology, and string theory. Several of GRAPPA's faculty members are also affiliated with Nikhef, the Dutch National Institute for Subatomic Physics, which is in close proximity to the UvA building.

GRAPPA/IoP has an opening for a PhD position in Gravitational Wave physics in Dr Samaya Nissanke's group at the UvA. The group is active in diverse sub-field including multi-messenger astronomy, data analysis, theory, and modeling, and is involved in the Virgo collaboration, the LISA consortium, and 3G science case, and several international electromagnetic follow-up groups. The successful candidate will work primarily on topics in source modeling with Drs. Tanja Hinderer and Samaya Nissanke, with the focus of the projects being open and depending on the candidate's interests. Projects can range from theoretical perturbative approaches to relativistic two-body dynamics, waveform modeling through combining information from analytical and numerical relativity, tests of General Relativity, black holes, neutron-star matter, dark matter and physics beyond the standard model, multi-messenger astrophysics and cosmology. The successful applicant will also work in close collaboration with the groups of Dr Philipp Moesta (multimessenger astrophysics), Prof. Daniel Baumann (cosmology), and Prof. Gianfranco Bertone (dark matter).

An MSc in Physics or an equivalent degree is required to be considered for this position. Knowledge of General Relativity and software skills are desirable. The candidate needs to possessexcellent English communication skills. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups in STEM.

The appointment will be on a temporary basis for a period of 4 years (initial appointment will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it can be extended for a total duration of 4 years) and should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis). An educational plan will be drafted that includes attendance of courses and (international) meetings. The PhD candidate is also expected to assist in university teaching as a teaching assistant.

Based on a full-time appointment (38 hours per week) the gross monthly salary will range from 2,325 in the first year to 2,972 in the last year. TheCollective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universitiesis applicable. Favourable tax agreements may apply to non-Dutch applicants.

The UvA is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We value a spirit of enquiry and endurance, provide the space to keep asking questions and cherish a diverse atmosphere of curiosity and creativity.

You may apply using the link below.

All applications received before 31 January 2019 will be considered. Applications must include: Please upload all the files as 1 PDF in the field marked CV.