The University of Groningen offers a four-year PhD position in probability and dynamical systems.

Job description

The position is inserted in the mathematical side of an interdisciplinary project together with physics. Globally, the project aims to investigate opportunities for neuromorphic computing through the study of networks of nanoparticles randomly deposited in some medium, which respond to applied voltages emulating neurons and synapses. The mathematical part of the project aims to support the experimental research by investigating models of synchronisation in random networks. The supervision will be carried out by Prof. D. Valesin (expertise in stochastic processes and random graphs) and Prof. H. Waalkens (expertise in dynamical systems and synchronisation).

With the newly established CogniGron (Groningen Cognitive Systems and Materials Center), the University of Groningen has created an interdisciplinary research centre with the goal of making progress towards cognitive computing. Hence, you will have the unique opportunity to interact broadly with colleagues outside mathematics. You will also be expected to contribute to the teaching at the faculty.

We welcome applications from students who have graduated with an outstanding Master’s degree (or are about to do so soon) and are committed to working on fundamental research questions. Any background knowledge in dynamical systems, stochastic processes and random graph theory will help you to get a smoother start.

The successful candidate will perform the following tasks:
• acquire the necessary background knowledge on random graphs embedded in space and synchronisation, notably the Kuramoto model and its stochastic versions
• conduct research and prove theorems concerning the behaviour of such models
• communicate regularly with the physics team to coordinate efforts and support the experimental results
• contribute to teaching at the faculty.

Qualifications

You have:
• a Master’s degree in mathematics, or a Master’s degree in physics with a strong mathematical background
• taken courses providing a solid knowledge in dynamical systems and stochastic process (a master thesis in one of these fields is also desirable).

Organisation

Since its founding in 1614, the University of Groningen has enjoyed an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative centre of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. We encourage the 33,500 students and researchers to develop their own individual talents. Among the best research universities in Europe, we join forces with prestigious partner universities and networks around the world, the University of Groningen is truly an international place of knowledge.

Within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the four-year PhD position is available at the Bernoulli Institute for Mathematics, Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence of the University of Groningen in The Netherlands.

Conditions of employment

We offer in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities:

• a salary of € 2,395 gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 3,061 gross per month in the fourth and final year, based on a full-time position (1.0 FTE)
• a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% year-end bonus
• a limited position for a period of 4 years. A PhD training programme is part of the agreement and the successful candidate will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Science and Engineering. You will first be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years. Prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that a successful completion of the PhD thesis within the next three years is to be expected.

Application

Do you meet our Qualification criteria? If so, you can apply through the electronic application form found in the link:
https://www.rug.nl/about-ug/work-with-us/job-opportunities/?details=00347-02S0007XNP

(note that application is not done by email). The following documents are required, in a single file:
• a letter of motivation explaining why you are suitable for the position (max. 1 page)
• a curriculum vitae
• transcripts and copies of academic degrees (Bachelor/MSc)
• Master’s thesis (or a preliminary version)
• contact details of two academic referees who are familiar with your work, and who can be contacted directly if further information is necessary.

You may apply for this position until 15 November 11:59pm / before 16 November 2020 Dutch local time.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our University. We are committed to building a diverse faculty so you are encouraged to apply. Our selection procedure follows the guidelines of the Recruitment code (NVP), http://nvp-plaza.nl/download/?id=7714 and European Commission’s European Code of Conduct for recruitment of researchers, https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/charter/code