Nabil Iqbal
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Postdoctoral Researcher in Symmetries, Deep Learning, and Theoretical Physics University of Amsterdam in Netherlands
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
This is a temporary, fully salaried employment contract for 38 hours per week over 24 months, with a two-month probationary period. The gross monthly salary is €3,706–€5,760 depending on relevant experience, plus an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end allowance. Pension and other employment benefits are included, and the 30% ruling may apply to non-Dutch applicants.
Deadline
Dec 8, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
University of Amsterdam
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About this position
The University of Amsterdam’s Amsterdam Machine Learning Lab (AMLab) is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher for a two-year project on symmetries and their breaking in deep learning, supported by a Simons Foundation grant. The project investigates how complex capabilities emerge from simple neural-network components and aims to use mathematically principled insights to design more robust, efficient, controllable, and scientifically useful machine-learning systems.
Working with Associate Professor Nabil Iqbal in a new AMLab group studying neural networks from a physical point of view, the postdoctoral researcher will develop an independent research line focused on the dynamics of modern neural architectures. Possible directions include spontaneous symmetry breaking in equivariant neural networks, theoretical scaling laws in language models or geometric deep learning, generative-model dynamics using non-equilibrium and non-reciprocal thermodynamics, and new generative approaches for many-body quantum physics. These topics are indicative rather than exhaustive and can be shaped around the researcher’s interests.
The role combines theoretical and experimental machine learning. The researcher will build mathematical frameworks, run computational experiments, develop new deep-learning architectures, lead and co-author publications at leading venues, represent AMLab at international meetings, and contribute to the group’s research agenda. The position also includes co-supervising PhD and MSc students and developing an individual research portfolio.
AMLab conducts research in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and applications to large-scale scientific and industrial data, including deep generative models, approximate inference, probabilistic programming, and Bayesian deep learning. The researcher will be based within the University of Amsterdam’s Faculty of Science, an interdisciplinary environment spanning areas from fundamental physics and cosmology to brain science.
The position offers a salaried 24-month research appointment at the University of Amsterdam.
Funding details
This is a temporary, fully salaried employment contract for 38 hours per week over 24 months, with a two-month probationary period. The gross monthly salary is €3,706–€5,760 depending on relevant experience, plus an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end allowance. Pension and other employment benefits are included, and the 30% ruling may apply to non-Dutch applicants.
What's required
Applicants must have a completed or nearly completed PhD in machine learning, computer science, physics, mathematics, or a related field; a strong publication record in major academic journals or international conferences; strong mathematical and programming skills, such as PyTorch or JAX, with the ability to conduct experiments and develop theoretical frameworks; the ability to drive research independently and mentor PhD and MSc students; and professional command of English. Applications should include a detailed CV with months specified for education and work experience, a motivation letter describing fit, a publication list, and the names and email addresses of two referees.
How to apply
Apply online through the red Apply button by 8 December 2026. Submit a detailed CV, motivation letter, publication list, and the names and email addresses of two referees; all files except the CV should be combined into one PDF.
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Professors
Associate Professor
Netherlands
Research Interests
Symmetry Breaking
Generative Modeling
Many-body Systems
Physics
Theoretical Physics
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.