PhD position in theoretical particle physics
PhD position in theoretical particle physics at the National Institute for Subatomic Physics (Nikhef) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
The successful candidate will join the Nikhef theory group, an internationally active research environment working on theoretical and experimental subatomic physics. Nikhef is a partnership between six Dutch universities and the NWO-I Foundation, with strong links to major collaborations at CERN and beyond. The institute offers a lively scientific setting with seminars, colloquia, journal clubs, and interactions with experimental groups, as well as access to strong computing resources and established technical support.
The research project focuses on theoretical and phenomenological aspects of perturbative QCD in collider physics, including parton showers. The main scientific emphasis is on soft and collinear radiative effects, both at leading and next-to-leading power, and their all-order summation for a range of observables and related quantities. The description also situates the project within the broader Nikhef theory programme, which includes higher-order calculations, jet physics, parton distribution functions, 3D imaging of the proton, effective field theories, flavour physics, gravity, and cosmology.
Applicants should have a Master degree or equivalent in physics, together with good knowledge of Quantum Field Theory and the Standard Model. Good software skills are desirable. For informal questions, candidates may contact Prof. Eric Laenen ([email protected]).
The appointment is a 4-year PhD contract employed by the NWO-I Foundation, with junior scientist status. The salary starts at €3,115 gross per month in the first year and rises to €3,989 gross per month in the final year. The intended start date is in autumn 2026 or early 2027.
Applications should be submitted through the online application button. Candidates must upload a CV, a brief motivation letter, and a statement of research interests, and provide the email addresses of at least two referees who can supply recommendation letters. Review of applications begins on 2026-09-21 and continues until the position is filled.
