PhD Position in Theoretical Particle Physics National Institute for Subatomic Physics (NIKHEF) in Netherlands

The National Institute for Subatomic Physics (NIKHEF), in collaboration with the Institute of Physics (IoP) at the University of Amsterdam, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in theoretical particle physics. The research environment is internationally renowned, with strong ties to the University of Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and several national research institutes located at the Amsterdam Science Park. The IoP is housed in a modern facility with excellent laboratories and technical resources, fostering a vibrant academic community.

The successful candidate will join a dynamic team under the supervision of Associate Professor Jordy de Vries, focusing on precision calculations for low-energy searches for physics beyond the Standard Model. Research topics include the role of radiative corrections in beta-decay processes, innovative methods for understanding neutrinofull and neutrinoless double beta decay, and the development of new theoretical frameworks for electric dipole moments. The project is part of an ERC grant and emphasizes collaborative work within the group, with opportunities to co-supervise Bachelor and Master students.

The NIKHEF theory group is active in higher-order calculations, jet physics in perturbative Quantum Chromodynamics, parton distribution functions, flavor and neutrino physics, effective field theories, precision tests of the Standard Model, cosmology, and gravitational waves. The broader research environment includes the GRAPPA institute for gravitation and astroparticle physics, and experimental collaborations such as ATLAS, LHCb, ALICE, Xenon, and NL-eEDM.

Applicants should hold or be close to obtaining an MSc degree in theoretical (particle) physics, demonstrate interest in precision calculations for particle physics experiments, and possess strong English communication skills. Experience in quantum field theory and effective field theory is preferred. The position is open to candidates from all backgrounds, with a particular encouragement for women and under-represented groups to apply. The appointment is for 4 years (initially 18 months, extendable upon satisfactory evaluation), with a gross monthly salary of €3,059–€3,881, plus 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance. Non-Dutch applicants may benefit from the 30% tax ruling. The preferred start date is September 1, 2026.

Applications must be submitted via the official application link by April 3, 2026, and should include a detailed CV, motivation letter, brief research statement (max 2 pages), and contact details of two referees, all in a single PDF (except the CV). Only complete applications received through the portal will be considered. For further information, contact Associate Professor Jordy de Vries at [email protected].