Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
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PhD in Experimental Physics: How Do You Make the First Antimatter Molecule? Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Experimental Physics
Funding
PhD salary of €3,204 to €4,051 gross per month on a full-time basis; fixed-term contract initially for 1 year with possibility of extension.
Deadline
Feb 28, 2027
Country
Netherlands
University
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
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About this position
This PhD project in experimental physics at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam asks how the first antimatter molecule could be made by studying the fundamental collision between a proton and a hydrogen atom. The research sits in the NWO Vidi project SAMURAI and focuses on one of the simplest yet most important atomic processes: whether the pair can bind and emit a photon to form H2+, a key reaction connected to molecule formation in the early universe and to proposed routes toward antimatter chemistry.
You will work in the Quantum Metrology and Laser Applications group within LaserLaB Amsterdam, a highly collaborative environment where precision measurements on atoms and molecules are carried out with advanced laser methods. The group combines experiment and theory, and this project is embedded in a small research team that studies molecular ions with extreme precision. The lab infrastructure includes tunable extreme-ultraviolet lasers, ion traps, velocity-map imaging, and access to a broad electromagnetic spectrum from the extreme ultraviolet to millimetre waves.
The research is strongly hands-on and technically broad. You will use two tunable EUV lasers to excite H2, image fragments produced in the collision process, trap H2+ ions, and apply millimetre waves and magnetic fields to control dissociation. A central aim is to obtain the first spectroscopic observation of excited electronic states of H2+, and to contribute to the first measurement of radiative association between cold protons and hydrogen atoms. Data analysis is paired with multichannel quantum-defect and scattering theory, with the option to contribute to the theory work as well.
The Molecular Ions group led by Dr. Max Beyer studies the simplest molecules with one to four electrons, where measurements can directly test ab initio and quantum-defect calculations. The work environment is international, experimental, and interdisciplinary, with strong links between precision spectroscopy, laser physics, molecular ion trapping, and fundamental tests of theory. The project offers the chance to publish, present at conferences, and develop practical expertise in lasers, vacuum systems, electronics, CAD, and scientific programming.
The position is based at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in Amsterdam, within the Faculty of Science and a research culture focused on fundamental physics with broad scientific and societal relevance.
Funding details
PhD salary of €3,204 to €4,051 gross per month on a full-time basis; fixed-term contract initially for 1 year with possibility of extension.
What's required
An MSc degree, or near completion of one, in physics, physical chemistry or a related field is required. The candidate should have affinity with quantum mechanics and atomic, molecular and optical physics, with an interest in lasers and electronics, and a good command of spoken and written English. The advert also stresses curiosity, practical problem-solving, teamwork, and willingness to spend four years on an unanswered research question.
How to apply
Apply via the AcademicTransfer application page. Submit a detailed CV, a one-page cover letter, transcripts from BSc and MSc studies, MSc thesis or draft, diploma(s), and the names and contact details of two references.
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Prepare your application
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ApplyKite TwinLearns as you applyMake your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.