Teaser Text
The Mathematical Institute is looking for two PhD candidates to join the project Patterns in Random Media under the supervision of Hermen Jan Hupkes
What you will do
The PhD positions focus on the dynamical behaviour of systems described by stochastic partial differential equations (SPDEs) or lattice differential equations (LDEs) on grids with randomized structures. In particular, we will consider the impact of randomness on patterns such as travelling waves, spirals and spots. The precise topic of your thesis can be tuned to your interests and background; see https://pub.math.leidenuniv.nl/~hupkeshj for a flavour of past research strongly related to this position.
You will be joining an active and growing research team analyzing the dynamics of patterns from a wide variety of angles, within the larger group in Leiden specialising in ‘Analysis and Dynamical Systems’. You will be able to participate in a range of local and national seminars and the position includes funding to present your work at international conferences and workshops.
Where you will work
Research at our faculty
The Faculty of Science is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to contribute to addressing the major societal challenges of the future.
The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organised in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,500 staff and almost 6,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.
For more information, see Faculty of Science and Working at Leiden University
What you bring
- Master’s degree in mathematics, including a solid background in dynamical systems and/or probability;
- Written and oral proficiency in English.
What we offer
We also offer:
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An employment contract for the duration of one year with a view to permanent employment. This contract falls under the CLA of Dutch Universities;
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A salary between €3059 - €3881 gross per month, based on a full-time appointment (38 hours) (PhD student);
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A holiday allowance (8%), an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), and an attractive pension scheme at ABP;
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Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs for home-to-work travel;
- Additional funding is available to support travel to conferences and workshops abroad;
- Flexible working hours: as a standard, you are entitled to a minimum of 29 leave days on the basis of a full-time working week of 38 hours;
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Lots of options when it comes to secondary employment conditions; within our terms of employment individual choices model, you can exchange leave days and/or salary for benefits such as an advantageous sports subscription and bicycle scheme;
- A home-working allowance (day and internet allowance) and attention for good workplaces. The University will also provide you with a laptop.
All our PhD candidates are embedded in the Leiden University Graduate School of Science.
What we value
Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. We strive to be an open community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to fully develop themselves. We consider an inclusive academic environment, where students and staff can share their experiences and viewpoints, to be essential for the development of talent.
Want to apply or find out more?
- CV
- The transcripts of your Master's studies to date
- A completed copy of the application form
- a copy of (a draft of) your Master's thesis (optional)
- A letter of motivation (preferably at most 1 page)
Applications received before 29 May 2026 will be guaranteed full consideration.