PhD Position: Mathematics of Nonlinear Acoustics

1. Introduction

The Department of Mathematics at Radboud University is seeking an outstanding, highly motivated PhD candidate in Mathematics of Nonlinear Acoustics.

2. Job description

As a PhD candidate, you will develop novel mathematical methods for the optimal control and simulation of multiphysics systems arising in Nonlinear Acoustics. The goal is to advance our rigorous understanding and computational treatment of non-linear differential equations that describe the interaction of acoustic waves with other physical phenomena, such as heat transfer and oscillating microbubbles. Multiphysics interactions of this kind underpin various cutting-edge ultrasound applications, ranging from non-invasive cancer treatments to contrast imaging and targeted drug delivery. 

The research will be supervised by Dr Vanja Nikolić. Learn here more about the project  in non-technical terms.

The position is part of the NWO project ‘Taming Complex Multiphysics Systems in Nonlinear Acoustics’. It includes funding for travelling to international conferences and visiting collaborators and comes with a light teaching load.

Applications from underrepresented groups in STEM are especially encouraged.

Your teaching load may be up to 10% of your working time.

Would you like to learn more about what it’s like to pursue a PhD at Radboud University? Visit the page about working as a PhD candidate. 

3. Profile

• You hold a Master's degree in Mathematics completed before the start date.
• You have a strong interest and background in one or more of the following areas: mathematical analysis, numerical analysis, or optimisation of partial differential equations.
• You are enthusiastic about programming and computational methods.
• You have excellent writing and communication skills. 

4. We are

You will be a member of the Applied Mathematics Research Group, which is part of the Institute of Mathematics, Astrophysics and Particle Physics of Radboud University. The group offers a friendly and welcoming setting for high-level research. Our interests include applied analysis, computational analysis, and modelling for a broad range of applications. The group regularly organises Applied Analysis seminars, offering an overview of current research in the field. 

5. We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract (0.8 FTE 5- year contract - 1.0 FTE 4- year contract) 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) or 3.5 years (5-year contract).
• You will receive a starting salary of €2,901 gross per month based on a 38-hour working week, which will increase to €€3,707 from the fourth year onwards (salary scale P).
• 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. 

6. Practical information and applying

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

The first interviews will take place on the first week of June. You will preferably start your employment on 1 September 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.