PhD Position: Cold and Controlled Reactive Molecular Collisions

Are you intrigued by the intricate dynamics of molecular collisions and reactions? Want to operate world-unique equipment? Join us as a PhD candidate and contribute to exciting research on cold and controlled reactive molecular collisions!

As a PhD candidate, you will be part of the Controlled Chemical Reactions group led by Jolijn Onvlee. Our research group investigates reactive collisions between state-selected atoms and molecules with exceptional precision and in unexplored energy regimes. We use a crossed molecular beam machine with a Zeeman decelerator, which enables precise control over the velocities and quantum states of atoms or molecules prior to the reaction. By combining this with resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionisation and velocity map imaging, we can probe the reaction products in high detail. This powerful experimental approach gives us the opportunity to get detailed information about the dynamics of molecular collisions.

In this project, you will perform reactive scattering experiments, design and implement advanced detection techniques, analyse data, and carry out numerical trajectory simulations of deceleration and scattering processes. You will have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art and world-unique equipment. You will work closely with other team members from various international backgrounds, dividing tasks and tackling problems together. Moreover, you will contribute to teaching activities and help supervise BSc and/or MSc students during their internships with us (10% of your working time).

What I love about Radboud University is the state-of-the-art research equipment, the wealth of expertise in our department, and the supportive, informal atmosphere. Jolijn Onvlee Assistant Professor Spectroscopy of Cold Molecules

Does this sound like you?

• You have a Master's degree in physics, chemistry, or a related discipline.
• You have an interest in the fields of experimental molecular physics and physical chemistry.
• Ideally, you have experience with vacuum systems, molecular beams and lasers.
• You are an enthusiastic team player but can also work independently.
• You have good oral and written English communication skills.

What we offer you

• We will give you a temporary employment contract (1.0 FTE) of 1.5 years, after which your performance will be evaluated. If the evaluation is positive, your contract will be extended by 2.5 years (4-year contract).
• You will receive a starting salary of €3,059 gross per month based on a 38-hour working week, which will increase to €3,881 in the fourth year.
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus.
• We offer Dual Career Coaching. The Dual Career Coaching assists your partner via support, tools, and resources to improve their chances of independently finding employment in the Netherlands.
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20.

Additional employment conditions

Work and science require good employment practices. Radboud University's primary and secondary employment conditions reflect this. You can make arrangements for the best possible work-life balance with flexible working hours, various leave arrangements and working from home. You are also able to compose part of your employment conditions yourself. For example, exchange income for extra leave days and receive a reimbursement for your sports membership. In addition, you receive a 34% discount on the sports and cultural activities at Radboud University as an employee. And, of course, we offer a good pension plan. We also give you plenty of room and responsibility to develop your talents and realise your ambitions. Therefore, we provide various training and development schemes.

Where you will be working

The Controlled Chemical Reactions group is part of the Spectroscopy of Cold Molecules department within the Institute for Molecules and Materials at Radboud University's Faculty of Science.

Our aim is to completely understand and, ultimately, fully control chemical reactions at the molecular level. We therefore investigate reactive collisions in which chemical bonds are broken and new bonds are formed between individual molecules in the gas phase. We make use of advanced experimental techniques to study these reactions in extremely high detail. Further information about our group's research interests can be found here.

Our team currently includes Jolijn Onvlee, one postdoctoral researcher, two PhD candidates, and two Master's students. The Spectroscopy of Cold Molecules department is highly international. English is the working language at the department and faculty. Alongside our work, we organise annual outings and social events like barbecues. Team members often plan their own activities, from drinks and dinners to sportive events.

Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science (FNWI), part of Radboud University, engages in groundbreaking research and excellent education. In doing so, we push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and pass that knowledge on to the next generation.We seek solutions to major societal challenges, such as cybercrime and climate change and work on major scientific challenges, such as those in the quantum world. At the same time, we prepare our students for careers both within and outside the scientific field.Currently, more than 1,300 colleagues contribute to research and education, some as researchers and lecturers, others as technical and administrative support officers. The faculty has a strong international character with staff from more than 70 countries. Together, we work in an informal, accessible and welcoming environment, with attention and space for personal and professional development for all.Radboud University
At Radboud University, we aim to make an impact through our work. We achieve this by conducting groundbreaking research, providing high-quality education, offering excellent support, and fostering collaborations within and outside the university. In doing so, we contribute indispensably to a healthy, free world with equal opportunities for all. To accomplish this, we need even more colleagues who, based on their expertise, are willing to search for answers. We advocate for an inclusive community and welcome employees with diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Will you also contribute to making the world a little better? You have a part to play.

Contact: jolijn.onvlee [at] ru.nl