Postdoc in Experimental Geodynamic Modelling

Profile for the postdoc position

• PhD in Geology or Geophysics;
• experience with geodynamic modelling (laboratory-based (analogue) and/or numerical) of geological processes as evidenced by a track record of first-author, peer-reviewed, publications (experience with modelling of subduction/mantle dynamics will be considered advantageous);
• excellent ability to communicate in both written and spoken English;
• strong scientific motivation, and an interest in geodynamic processes of the Solid Earth;
• ability to work independently and in a team environment;
• good social skills and communication skills.

As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognizing that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset. We realize that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore we are happy to invite anyone who recognizes themselves in the profile above to apply.

The selected candidate will become part of a world-class research team within the Department of Earth Sciences at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. We offer a competitive salary and benefits, and we strongly value a healthy work-life balance. You will live in or around the multicultural metropolis of Amsterdam. We offer you:

• a salary of minimum € 3.706,00 (Scale 10) and maximum € 5.760,00 (Scale 10) gross per month, on a full-time basis. The exact salary depends on your education and experience.
• a position for 1.0 FTE. The appointment will initially be for six months. After satisfactory evaluation of the initial appointment, it will be extended by one year to a total duration of 1.5 years. Planned starting date is the first of May 2027.

We also offer you attractive fringe benefits and regulations. Some examples:

• A full-time 38-hour working week comes with a holiday leave entitlement of 232 hours per year.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• contribution to commuting expenses.
• a wide range of sports facilities which staff may use at a modest charge.
• the possibility to work partly from home.

Project and research group
The project will involve experimental modelling of subduction and subduction-induced mantle flow (low Reynolds number fluid dynamics) to record and map the evolving mantle flow field during progressive subduction. Recording of the mantle flow field will be done using a sophisticated Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) system that is based in the Kuenen-Escher Geodynamics Laboratory (KEG Lab) within the Department of Earth Sciences. More information about the KEG Lab can be found here: https://vu.nl/en/about-vu/more-about/kuenen-escher-geodynamics-laboratory.

The research project will be embedded in the Geodynamics and Tectonics research group, led by Prof. Dr. Wouter Schellart. Wouter will lead the project and offer mentorship, supervision and guidance to the postdoc. For more information about the group, please visit https://vu.nl/en/research/more-about/geodynamics-tectonics. For more information about the project, please contact Wouter at [email protected].

Department of Earth Sciences
The department of Earth Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, offers a stimulating international research environment with world-class academic reputation, and excellent state-of-the-art facilities. Research in the department covers a wide range of fundamental and applied research topics, including Earth and planetary dynamics, climate and environmental dynamics, surface processes and landscape dynamics, and sustainability, resources, and society. Our strength lies in the ability to deliver fundamental knowledge on the functioning of our planet and are key to finding sustainable solutions to many problems related to natural resources, natural hazards, energy, and the environment that society is facing.

Faculty of Science
The department of Earth Sciences is part of VU’s Faculty of Science. Researchers and students at VU Amsterdam’s Faculty of Science tackle fundamental and complex scientific problems to help pave the way for a sustainable and healthy future. From forest fires to big data, from obesity to malnutrition, and from molecules to the moon: we cover the full spectrum of the natural sciences. Our teaching and research have a strong experimentally technical, computational and interdisciplinary nature. The faculty is home to over 11,000 students enrolled in 40 study programs. It employs over 1,600 professionals spread across 10 academic departments.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
The Faculty of Science is VU’s largest faculty. Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam stands for values-driven education and research. We are open-minded experts with the ability to think freely - a broader mind. Maintaining an entrepreneurial perspective and concentrating on diversity, significance and humanity, we work on sustainable solutions with social impact. By joining forces, across the boundaries of disciplines, we work towards a better world for people and planet. Together we create a safe and respectful working and study climate, and an inspiring environment for education and research. We are located on 1 physical campus, in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas business district, with excellent location and accessibility. Over 6,150 staff work at the VU and over 31,000 students attend academic education.