Postdoc Position: Cold and Controlled Reactive Molecular Collisions

1. Introduction

Are you intrigued by the intricate dynamics of molecular collisions and reactions? And do you want to operate world-unique equipment? If so, join us for a 2.5-year postdoctoral position, contributing to exciting studies on cold and controlled reactive molecular collisions!

2. Job description

In this postdoctoral position, 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 help supervise BSc and/or MSc students during their internships in our group. 

3. Profile

• You hold a PhD in experimental molecular physics, physical chemistry or a related field.
• You have a solid background in working with molecular beams, velocity map imaging, and lasers.
• You are an enthusiastic team player.
• You have good oral and written English communication skills.

4. We are

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, two PhD candidates, and one Master’s student. 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 dinners to volleyball tournaments.

5. We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract of 2.5 years.
• Your salary within salary scale 10 depends on your previous education and number of years of (relevant) work experience. The amounts in the scale are based on a 38-hour working week.
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus. 
• You will be able to use our Dual Career and Family Support Service. The Dual Career Programme assists your partner via support, tools, and resources to improve their chances of independently finding employment in the Netherlands. Our Family Support Service helps you and your partner feel welcome and at home by providing customised assistance in navigating local facilities, schools, and amenities. Also take a look at our support for international staff page to discover all our services for international employees.
• 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. 

6. Practical information and applying

You can apply only via the button below. Address your letter of application to Jolijn Onvlee.  In the application form, you will find which documents you need to include with your application.

The first interviews will take place between 13 and 16 January (online). You will preferably start your employment on 1 March 2025. 

We can imagine you're curious about our application procedure. It describes what you can expect during the application procedure and how we handle your personal data and internal and external candidates. If you wish to apply for a non-scientific position with a non-EU nationality, please take notice of the following information.