Teaser Text
The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Institute of Physics (LION) are looking for a Senior Research Scientist to establish and lead a new Tracking Detectors group developing next‑generation particle‑physics detectors for CERN experiments.
This is a five‑year appointment. The successful candidate will have access to dedicated engineering, technical and laboratory facilities at Leiden University. In this position, you will collaborate closely with research teams across the Netherlands, CERN, the United Kingdom, Germany and beyond, as well as with industrial partners, to build a world‑class research programme and to deliver detector systems for SHiP and other CERN projects.
What you will do
- Establish and lead a new Tracking Detectors research group at Leiden University.
- Make major contributions to the design, construction and delivery of key detector components for one or more CERN experiments.
- Contribute to the design, construction and delivery of next‑generation tracking detector systems, including low‑mass, large‑area solutions for SHiP and other CERN experiments.
- Coordinate local research activities and strengthen Leiden University’s role in international particle‑physics collaborations.
Where you will work
The Leiden Institute of Physics (LION) is one of the oldest physics institutes in the Netherlands with more than 180 employees and approximately 30 senior scientists. Our research is very broad: from cosmology to quantum, and from economic networks to the physics behind DNA. There is a lot of collaboration with other disciplines within and outside the university and there is collaboration with the business community. Curiosity connects everyone within the institute. Together we explore the boundaries of our knowledge, provide inspiring education, and connect science with society.
Due to the strong involvement in CERN projects, frequent short stays in the Geneva area will be required and will be supported by Leiden University.
The Faculty of Science at Leiden University 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 make a contribution 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 organized in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelors’ and twelve master’s programs. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2,700 staff and over 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.
What you bring
In this team, we are looking for someone who can work independently. Every job is different, so in the beginning we will devote attention to your onboarding. If some of the work activities are new to you, we will look together at what you need, and draw up a development plan. This position is a good fit for you if you recognise yourself in the following:
- A PhD in experimental particle physics or a closely related field.
- At least five years’ experience in significant roles within one or more particle‑physics experiments.
- Clear evidence of scientific leadership in detector hardware development and/or physics activities.
- Experience with tracking detector technologies; experience with gas‑based technologies is highly valued.
- Expertise in the design, commissioning and operation of straw‑tube detectors is an advantage, but not essential.
- A demonstrated commitment to the long‑term development of tracking detector technologies for future collider experiments.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to lead and motivate an international research team.
What we offer
We also offer:
- A full‑time appointment for a fixed term of five years.
- The salary ranges, depending on qualifications and experience, from €4.728 to €6.433 (pay scale 11 as Researcher 3) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
- Competitive salary and benefits, depending on qualifications and experience.
- Excellent secondary employment conditions, including holiday allowance, end‑of‑year bonus, generous leave schemes and access to professional development and training facilities.
- Support for international mobility, including short research stays at CERN in Geneva.
What we value
Leiden University is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse academic community. We aim to create an open environment in which all staff and students feel valued and respected, and are able to develop their talents to the fullest. Diversity in backgrounds, perspectives and experiences is considered essential for academic excellence and innovation.
Want to apply or find out more?
If you would like further information about this position, please contact Prof. Alexey Boyarsky.
Are you enthusiastic about this vacancy? We look forward to receiving your application. Please submit your application online and include:
- A cover letter describing your motivation, leadership experience and vision for the Tracking Detectors group.
- A curriculum vitae, including a publication list.
- Contact details of at least two referees.
Applications should be submitted by June 7, 2026.
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In choosing between candidates, in case of equal suitability, preference will be given to internal candidates, women, the occupationally disabled and employees with a migration background.
- You live and are officially registered as resident in The Netherlands or are willing to relocate upon starting the position.
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A pre-employment screening (references, diplomas, certificate of good conduct (VOG)) may be part of the selection procedure.
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We ensure that our lecturers have a good level of English competency. Lectures who teach subjects in English have a minimum level of C1 for their English proficiency. We also believe it is important for international staff to have a good level of Dutch: they are expected to have at least C1 level of Dutch proficiency. Other staff who have the prospect of a permanent position are expected to have at least a passive understanding of Dutch.
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Leiden University expects faculty members to obtain the Basic Teaching Qualification (BKO). If the new employee does not yet hold this qualification or its equivalent, they must be willing to obtain it within two years.
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Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated. If you nevertheless choose to send us CVs, no rights can be derived from this. #LI-Hybrid