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PhD Position on Emergent Transitions in Non-equilibrium Dynamical SystemsFaculty/Services: Faculty of Science
Educational level: Master
Function type: PhD position
Closing date: 15 June 2023
Vacancy number: 11486
Are you a highly motivated student with a strong interest in understanding the nature of emergent transitions in non-equilibrium dynamical systems? We are seeking an excellent and ambitious PhD candidate to carry out theoretical interdisciplinary research to understand emergent transitions in a broad class of non-equilibrium systems, especially active and externally driven systems.
Despite encouraging theoretical advances in non-equilibrium statistical physics, understanding emergent transitions in non-equilibrium dynamical systems remains challenging due to lack of a general statistical thermodynamic framework. Particularly, for active systems driven by local injection of energy, the dynamics and mechanisms of transitions proceeding via rare fluctuations is poorly understood. Here, we propose an interdisciplinary research project which aims at developing a general theoretical framework to address the emergence and the sensitivity of transitions between non- equilibrium steady states in driven systems. To achieve this goal, we will extend the tools of stochastic thermodynamics and large deviation theory to non-equilibrium dynamical systems. Thus, the project will involve an exciting combination of concepts and techniques from mathematics, statistical physics and theoretical chemistry.
You will be embedded in the Foundations and Applications of Emergence (FAEME) research program within the Dutch Institute for Emergent Phenomena at the Faculty of Science of UvA.
You will carry out this interdisciplinary project in a collaborative setting comprised of a highly motivated team of researchers from different institutes within the Faculty of Science. You will be supervised jointly by Profs. Daan Crommelin and Michel Mandje s (Mathematics), Sara Jabbari-Farouji (Physics) and Peter Bolhuis (Chemistry). Building on theoretical and computational expertise in our groups, you will develop and explore the foundations of the theory using simple model non-equilibrium systems, such as an active particle in a double-well potential, and then move towards more realistic models of active polymers driven by molecular motors.
What are you going to do?
You are expected to do original and fundamental research on non-equilibrium dynamical systems combining theoretical and computational tools.
You will:
What do you have to offer?
You have:
Other skills, experiences, and documents that would benefit your application:
Our offer
A temporary contract for 38 hours per week for the duration of 4 years (the initial contract will be for a period of 18 months and after satisfactory evaluation it will be extended for a total duration of 4 years). The preferred starting date is September 2023. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis) in Faculty of Science resulting in a PhD degree granted by the University of Amsterdam. We will draft an educational plan that includes attendance of courses and (international) schools. We also expect you to assist in teaching undergraduates and master students.
The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between € 2,541 to € 3,247 (scale P). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling', may apply to non-Dutch applicants. The Collective Labour Agreement of Universities of the Netherlands is applicable.
Besides the salary and a vibrant and challenging environment at Science Park we offer you multiple fringe benefits:
Are you curious to read more about our extensive package of secondary employment benefits, take a look here.
About us
The University of Amsterdam is the Netherlands' largest university, offering the widest range of academic programmes. At the UvA, 30,000 students, 6,000 staff members and 3,000 PhD candidates study and work in a diverse range of fields, connected by a culture of curiosity.
The Faculty of Science has a student body of around 8,000, as well as 1,800 members of staff working in education, research or support services. Researchers and students at the Faculty of Science are fascinated by every aspect of how the world works, be it elementary particles, the birth of the universe or the functioning of the brain.
This PhD project will be carried out within the Foundations and Applications of Emergence (FAEME) research program of the Faculty of Science, benefiting from an exceptional scientific environment of an interdisciplinary team of collaborators from Korteweg-de Vries Institute for Mathematics , Institute of Physics and Van 't Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences. Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.
Any questions?
Do you have any questions, or do you require additional information? Please contact:
Dr. Sara Jabbari-Farouji, [email protected]
Prof. Michel Mandjes, , [email protected]
Job application
If you feel the profile fits you, and you are interested in the job, we look forward to receiving your application. You can apply online via the button below. We accept applications until and including 15 May 2023.
Applications should include the following information (all files besides your cv should be submitted in one single pdf file ):
a detailed curriculum vitae.
a motivation letter (max 1 page) that explains why you choose to apply for this position, including a statement of your research experience and interests.
Applications without the motivation letter will not be taken into consideration. However, with this motivation letter your application will receive our full attention.
Only complete applications received within the response period via the link below will be considered.
The interviews will be held during May and June 2023 until the position is filled.
The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.
No agencies please.
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