Two PhD candidates in the ATLAS group
The National Institute for Subatomic Physics (Nikhef) in the Netherlands is offering two fully funded PhD positions within its ATLAS group, embedded at the University of Amsterdam. Nikhef is a leading research institute in particle and astroparticle physics, collaborating internationally on major experiments such as ATLAS, ALICE, LHCb at CERN, and others. The ATLAS group at Nikhef is a founding member of the ATLAS collaboration and is deeply involved in detector construction, data acquisition, and physics analysis, with a strong focus on Higgs boson and top quark physics, as well as searches for new physics signatures.
The two PhD projects are part of the NWO-M2-project “When Higgs bosons meet Top quarks.” Position 1 will investigate Higgs boson production via the gg→HZ process, leveraging modern deep learning techniques such as Transformer networks to probe top-Higgs interactions. Position 2 will focus on extracting poorly constrained SMEFT coefficients, including those modeling anomalous top-Higgs interactions, using new experimental results and advanced machine learning methods. Both projects aim to advance understanding of physics beyond the Standard Model, with a particular emphasis on the top-Higgs interaction, which remains one of the least constrained aspects of SM-EFT.
PhD candidates will be based at Nikhef in Amsterdam and employed by the University of Amsterdam. The group offers a vibrant, international environment with access to state-of-the-art technical departments in mechanics, electronics, and computing. The positions include a temporary contract for 38 hours per week over four years, with a gross monthly salary ranging from €3,059 to €3,881, plus holiday and year-end allowances. Non-Dutch applicants may benefit from the ‘30% ruling’ tax agreement. The doctoral program includes an educational plan with courses and international meetings, and candidates may spend up to one year at CERN. Teaching assistance for undergraduate and master students is expected.
Applicants should hold (or be close to completing) a Master’s degree in high-energy physics or a closely related field, possess strong data analysis and software skills (Python, C++, ROOT), and have some research experience in experimental particle physics. Experience with machine learning is desirable but not required. The application deadline is March 8, 2026. Candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, and provide referee contact details. Reference letters will be requested for selected candidates after the deadline. Interviews are planned for April. For further information, contact the supervisors or Prof. Dr. Wouter Verkerke regarding the Nikhef ATLAS group.
The University of Amsterdam’s Faculty of Science, located at Amsterdam Science Park, offers excellent labs and technical facilities, and is part of a strong physics center with close ties to Nikhef. These positions provide an outstanding opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in particle physics and machine learning within a world-class scientific environment.
