Leiden University
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PhD Candidate in Complex Networks, Network Science, and Mathematical Modeling Leiden University in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
This is a full-time, initially one-year position, extendable by a further three years after a positive evaluation. The salary is €3,204–€4,051 gross per month for a 38-hour week, with an 8% holiday allowance, an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and an ABP pension scheme. Benefits include public-transport reimbursement, leave entitlement, flexible working arrangements, possible hybrid work within the Netherlands, home-working allowances, and provision of a laptop and mobile telephone.
Deadline
Nov 24, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
Leiden University
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About this position
Leiden University is recruiting a PhD Candidate in Complex Networks within the Mathematical Institute and the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science and AI (LIACS), based in Leiden, the Netherlands. The position is associated with the Leiden AlFa group, the Probability research group, and collaboration with the Network Science group.
The project investigates how structural properties of complex networks can be understood and modeled using mathematically tractable network models. Research may address network science, spatial network modeling, random graph models, clustering, heterogeneity, connectivity, computational network analysis, and data-driven analysis of real-world networks. The work combines theoretical modeling with computational investigation and mathematical analysis.
The successful candidate will conduct research at the intersection of mathematics and computer science, write a publication-based PhD thesis, and undertake limited teaching and supervision. The position is co-supervised by Dr. Moritz Otto and Dr. Akrati Saxena, with Professor Michel Mandjes as promotor.
Applicants should have a university degree in mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field, together with relevant knowledge of network science or complex networks. Experience in graph theory, probability, random graphs, complex systems, or topological data analysis is relevant. Programming experience, preferably in Python, strong academic motivation, good English communication skills, and the ability to work independently and in a team are expected. Master’s students who will complete their degree by early spring 2027 are encouraged to apply.
The appointment is full-time, initially for one year, with a possible three-year extension following a positive evaluation. The salary is €3,204–€4,051 gross per month, together with holiday pay, an end-of-year bonus, pension benefits, commuting reimbursement, leave, flexible and potentially hybrid working arrangements, and home-working support.
Applications must be submitted through the university application tool by 24 November 2026. Required materials are a CV, full academic transcripts, a cover letter of no more than two pages, a recent writing sample, and contact details for at least one academic referee.
Funding details
This is a full-time, initially one-year position, extendable by a further three years after a positive evaluation. The salary is €3,204–€4,051 gross per month for a 38-hour week, with an 8% holiday allowance, an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and an ABP pension scheme. Benefits include public-transport reimbursement, leave entitlement, flexible working arrangements, possible hybrid work within the Netherlands, home-working allowances, and provision of a laptop and mobile telephone.
What's required
Applicants must hold a university degree in mathematics, computer science, or a closely related field. Candidates expected to complete a Master’s degree by early spring 2027 are also encouraged to apply. Required or preferred preparation includes knowledge of network science or complex networks, such as graph theory, probability, random graphs, complex systems, or topological data analysis; programming experience, preferably in Python; strong motivation for academic research; good English communication skills; and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Applicants must live and be officially registered in the Netherlands or be willing to relocate there upon starting.
How to apply
Apply through Leiden University’s application tool by 24 November 2026. Submit a CV, full bachelor’s and master’s academic transcripts, a maximum two-page cover letter, a recent writing sample, and the names and contact details of at least one academic referee. Prospective applicants may contact Moritz Otto or Akrati Saxena with questions about research fit.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.