University of Amsterdam, String Theory Group, Institute of Physics
(posted 2024/10/07, listed until 2025/04/07)
Position Description
The collaboration brings together theorists from diverse backgrounds to develop theoretically well-founded proposals of quantum gravity and explore their possible observational signatures. We believe that connecting formal advances in quantum gravity to the natural world we live in could result in a true breakthrough. We therefore seek a paradigm shift that brings theory and observation together, helping to close the chasm between quantum mechanics and gravity. We will tackle foundational issues, effective descriptions, and observational tests of those effective descriptions. We are committed to inclusive excellence and innovation and thus hope to develop a diverse and thriving collaborative community.
This Collaboration uniquely brings together diverse faculty at four Hub institutions:
Yanbei Chen (Caltech) Ben Freivogel (University of Amsterdam) Steve Giddings (University of California, Santa Barbara) Cynthia Keeler (Arizona State University) Maulik Parikh (Arizona State University) Erik Verlinde (University of Amsterdam) Kathryn Zurek (Caltech).
Our research interests span quantum gravity, particle theory, string theory, gravitational waves, and astrophysics. The collaboration will feature extended visits between the collaboration hubs, and yearly workshops of all collaboration members to discuss open research questions and progress. To learn more about the collaboration visit www.qurios.caltech.edu.
The ideal candidate will have technical skills to work in gravity and will be interested in exploring new questions related to possible observability of quantum effects in gravity, manifested in laboratory experiments such as interferometers, cosmological observation, or observation of astrophysical objects such as black holes e.g. via gravitational waves. The appointment requires completion of a PhD and is expected to start as early as September 2025 with competitive compensation and significant research travel support. The initial appointment will be for two years with expected renewal for one additional year; in rare cases the appointment might be extended to a fourth year.
At the University of Amsterdam, fellows will benefit from interactions with the Amsterdam string theory group as well as the theoretical cosmology group and GRAPPA within the Institute of Physics. The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 3,345 to € 5,278. This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.
Application Process
We invite interested researchers to submit separate applications to each individual Collaboration Hub institution (Amsterdam, Arizona State, Caltech, UC Santa Barbara) by December 1, 2024 for full consideration. Links to all advertisements at hub institutions can be found at www.qurios.caltech.edu. A complete application includes a cover letter, CV, publication list, short statement of past and future research and three letters of reference. Ideally the cover letter (maximum one page) will address the candidate’s creative problem- solving ability, technical background, interest in exploring new directions, and collaborative skills. Hiring decisions will be coordinated by the Collaboration, though offers will be extended from individual institutions. Fellows may also specify their preferences of institutions in the cover letter, and some Fellows will have the opportunity to be jointly appointed at more than one institution over the period of the Fellowship.
Please address any science questions to Ben Freivogel (freivogel@uva.nl), or other collaboration members, and any administrative questions to Anne-Marieke Crommentuijn (A.M.Crommentuijn@uva.nl).
The department is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of the academic community.
Application Materials Required:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement
- Three reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site )
Further Info:
Institute of Physics (IoP), FNWI
Science Park 904 | 1098 XH Amsterdam