Florian Schreck
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PhD on Continuous Optical Clocks with Ultracold Strontium University of Amsterdam in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Atomic Physics
Funding
Temporary employment for 38 hours per week for four years, with an initial 18-month contract extendable after satisfactory evaluation. Gross monthly salary is €3,204–€4,051 under salary scale P, based on experience and seniority, plus 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance. The position includes pension benefits and other employment allowances; the Dutch 30% ruling may apply to non-Dutch applicants.
Deadline
Jan 31, 2027
Country
Netherlands
University
University of Amsterdam
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About this position
The University of Amsterdam is recruiting a PhD candidate to help develop a continuously operating optical atomic clock in the Ultracold Strontium Group at the Institute of Physics. The project addresses a fundamental limitation of conventional optical clocks, which operate in pulses and require many hours of averaging to reach their ultimate precision.
The candidate will work on a zero-deadtime clock that continuously interrogates ultracold strontium atoms. The planned system will use a continuous ultracold Sr source supplying atoms to four clock-interrogation zones within one vacuum chamber. While one zone performs clock interrogation, the others can be reloaded, enabling continuous operation and faster achievement of high-precision measurements. The work connects optical frequency metrology with quantum sensing, ultracold gases, Bose-Einstein condensation and AMO physics.
Working with Prof. Florian Schreck and the Strontium Quantum Gases Group, the PhD researcher will finish building and operating the clock. Activities include integrating laser systems, optics and electronics; debugging and acquiring experimental data; designing and constructing machine upgrades; analysing data; conducting literature research; and writing scientific articles.
The group is part of the Quantum Gases & Quantum Information cluster within the Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute for Experimental Physics. Its broader research environment includes continuous optical clocks, continuous superradiant lasers, optical time and frequency distribution, quantum sensing, atom interferometry, quantum simulation with Rb-Sr mixtures, single strontium atoms in optical tweezers and improved optical technologies. The project is embedded in the Quantum Delta NL Ultracold Atom Quantum Sensing Testbed and benefits from collaborations with industry, startups and technology users.
The PhD candidate will also participate in group activities, contribute to bachelor’s and master’s education, present research and engage in societal outreach. The position leads toward a dissertation and includes an educational plan with courses and international meetings.
Funding details
Temporary employment for 38 hours per week for four years, with an initial 18-month contract extendable after satisfactory evaluation. Gross monthly salary is €3,204–€4,051 under salary scale P, based on experience and seniority, plus 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end allowance. The position includes pension benefits and other employment allowances; the Dutch 30% ruling may apply to non-Dutch applicants.
What's required
Applicants should have a recent master's degree in experimental ultracold atom or trapped-ion physics. They should demonstrate strong teamwork, initiative, good time-management skills, and good oral and written English communication. Applications should include a detailed CV with months specified for education and work experience, a motivation letter, a publication list, and the names and email addresses of two referees who can provide recommendation letters. A knowledge-security check may form part of the selection procedure.
How to apply
Apply online through the vacancy's Apply button and send the application to Florian Schreck by email. Submit a detailed CV separately and combine the motivation letter, publication list, and referee details in one PDF. Applications are accepted until the position is filled.
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Professors
Professor
Netherlands
Research Interests
Electronics
Physics
Quantum Sensing
Atomic Physics
Quantum Gases
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.