Passionate about clean energy and applied mathematics? Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is offering two PhD Positions in Applied Probability and Network Optimization. This fully funded opportunity is ideal for MSc holders in mathematics, electrical engineering, or related disciplines.

To be eligible for the PhD positions, applicants must hold or be nearing completion of an MSc degree in Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Candidates should have a strong interest in applied probability, operations research, network science, and network optimization, along with good communication skills in English. Familiarity with programming and data science is also preferred. Applicants from all nationalities are welcome, and individuals from underrepresented groups in academia, including women and ethnic minorities, are especially encouraged to apply.

Founded in 1880, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) is a leading research university in the Netherlands, known for its commitment to academic excellence and societal impact. Located in Amsterdam’s Zuidas district, it offers a wide range of programs across disciplines like business, science, humanities, and medicine. With a diverse, international community of over 30,000 students and a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, VU Amsterdam fosters critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Application Deadline: May 25, 2025

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

• Department: Faculty of Science – Department of Mathematics

• Course Level: PhD

• Award: Monthly salary ranging from €2,901 to €3,707 gross (based on full-time employment), plus benefits

• Access Mode: Online

• Number of Awards: 2

• Nationality: Domestic and International

• The award can be taken in: the Netherlands

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: Open to applicants from all nationalities

• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in Applied Probability, Network Optimization, and Network Science under the Department of Mathematics

• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Hold or be in the process of completing an MSc in Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field

  • Demonstrate strong interest in applied probability, operations research, network science, and network optimization

  • Possess good communication skills in English

  • Have an affinity for programming and data science

  • Indicate any preference for one of the two PhD topics (weather-driven failures or grid optimization) in the cover letter.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit their application via the online application portal. Applications via email will not be considered. Required documents include:

• A cover letter (mentioning topic preference, if any)

• Curriculum Vitae

• MSc transcript (courses and grades)

• (Draft) MSc thesis (if available)

• Contact details of two referees

Contact Person:
Dr. Alessandro Zocca (Assistant Professor)
[Email contact through application page]

Benefits

• Fully funded 4-year PhD position (0.8–1.0 FTE)

• Initial 1-year appointment with extension upon positive evaluation

• Monthly gross salary between €2,901 and €3,707

• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus

• Up to 41 vacation days per year (based on full-time)

• Commuting expense contribution

• Flexible benefits package model

• Paid parental leave

• A dynamic, inclusive research environment in Amsterdam’s vibrant Zuidas district

Apply Now