PhD Number theory / Arithmetic Geometry

The Mathematical Institute of the Faculty of Science, Leiden University, has a position for a PhD candidate.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Mathematical Institute of Leiden University invites applicants for a PhD position with Jan Vonk in number theory / arithmetic geometry, in the context of his ERC Grant 101076941 “Geodesics and geometric-arithmetic intersections”. You will be joining an active and growing group, situated within an even larger research group in Leiden specialising in algebra, geometry and number theory. The position comes with some light teaching duties.

LEIDEN UNIVERSITY

The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organised in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,500 staff and almost 6,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.

Mathematical Institute

The Mathematical Institute (MI) is one of the eight institutes within the Faculty of Science and has a strong international orientation. Its mission is to push the frontiers of scientific knowledge by developing and applying high quality mathematics, while offering a wide range of mathematical training in a friendly but challenging environment.

We believe that mathematics is an essential part of human knowledge and our staff members take pride in their role as keepers of this rich field of science. They are dedicated to push the boundaries of mathematical knowledge and to contribute their experience towards solving problems faced in other sciences, society and industry. In addition, many of our staff members work hard to promote mathematical literacy in society at large through a multitude of outreach activities.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• We offer a full-time appointment of initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the research, teaching evaluations, personal capabilities and compatibility, the appointment will be extended for another three years.
• The gross salary ranges from € 2.770,- per month in the first year to € 3.539,- gross per month in the fourth year based on a full-time position (pay scale P).
• Additional funding is available to support travel to conferences and workshops abroad.
• Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package including pension build-up, paid parental leave and additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3%). Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Starting date

September 2024

Teaching

Teaching duties are about 2 lecture courses per academic year.

Applications

In order to be eligible, make sure you send your complete application before the deadline of the call. Please respond via the blue button on this page enclosing the following documents (in pdf format), in English:

• Motivation letter
• Curriculum vitae
• At least 2 reference letters

The application deadline is 6 January 2024.

Diversity and inclusion

Fostering an inclusive community is a central element of the values and vision of Leiden University. Leiden University is committed to becoming an inclusive community which enables all students and staff to feel valued and respected and to develop their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High quality teaching and research is inclusive.

Language

It is not expected that you speak any Dutch when you arrive, and it is not necessary for life at work or outside of it. Dutch courses are offered by the MI, and can provide a nice way to foster a closer connection with the Netherlands.