FWN - Assistant professor in experimental soft matter (1.0 fte)Institute of Physics (LION)

Vacancy number: 16735

Job type: Academic staff

Contract hours min: 40

Contract hours max: 40

Location: Leiden

Applying is possible up to and including: 2 oktober 2026

The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Institute of Physics (LION) invite applications for a tenure-track position in experimental soft matter physics. We seek an outstanding and ambitious researcher to establish an innovative and internationally visible research program within our highly collaborative soft matter community.

What you will do

Key responsibilities

• Establishing an independent, internationally recognized research group in experimental soft matter
• Publishing in leading journals
• Acquisition of external research funding
• Teaching at the undergraduate and graduate level in physics
• Supervision of BSc and MSc thesis students
• Contribution to the inclusive, collaborative, and well-functioning institute.

Where you will work

Smart, Living, Active Matter Center at the Leiden Institute of Physics

The experimental soft matter community at the Leiden Institute of Physics is a dynamic, collaborative environment which consists of the groups of Daniela Kraft (colloidal model systems and microrobotics), Martin van Hecke (mechanical metamaterials and in-materia computing), Alexandre Morin (active matter) and Louise Jawerth (protein condensates). We are complemented by two theoretical groups led by Luca Giomi and Silke Henkes, working on active and living matter, in particular tissue mechanics. Together, we form the Smart, Living, Active Matter (SLAM) center (slam-leiden.nl) which offers a vibrant environment for cutting edge research.

We are embedded in the Leiden Institute of Physics, which features a long-standing tradition of excellence in physics research and currently hosts a broad spectrum of research groups ranging from biological and soft matter to quantum matter and cosmology. The institute offers access to state-of-the art research facilities, excellent administrative and scientific support structures, and fosters an international and inclusive atmosphere with strong interactions among the various groups.

About the Faculty of Science

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. We are committed to curiosity driven fundamental research and interdisciplinary research; we aim at advancing science and addressing the major societal challenges of the future.

What you bring

We are particularly interested in candidates whose work complements and expands our existing strengths in complex systems, colloidal particles, active and living matter, microrobotics, tissue mechanics, mechanical metamaterials, and in-materia computing and learning.

The position is offered at the Assistant Professor level. In exceptional cases, appointment at a more senior level may be considered.

Your profile

• Ph.D. in physics or a closely related area
• A strong publication record demonstrating scientific creativity and independence
• Clear potential to develop an internationally recognized research program and secure external funding
• Excellent communications skills in English (written and spoken).
• Commitment to high-quality, engaging teaching
• Willingness to contribute to the organization of the institute and to learn Dutch

What we offer

We offer a perfect start by providing an attractive startup package, state-of-the-art laboratories and support departments, and continuous development of your personal and professional skills through courses and coaching. A mentoring program is offered with fellow peers as well as with senior staff members in the department. Successful performance will lead to promotion to Associate Professor, with the possibility to further progression to Full Professor based on achievements.

We offer a full-time position, initially for one year. Following a positive evaluation, the position will be made permanent. Upon appointment, agreements will be made regarding your career development in line with the policy for career development for scientific staff.

• Salary ranges from € 4728,- to € 6433,- gross per month at the assistant professor level (pay grade 11 in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).
• Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3%), training and career development and sabbatical leave.
• Our individual choices model offers additional benefits that can be chosen by you. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

What we value

Leiden University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from members of underrepresented groups. Gender balance is an explicit aim of our institute, and we therefore strongly encourage women to apply and will give preference to female candidates in case of equal qualifications. We aim to ensure that candidates experience an equitable selection process.

Want to apply or find out more?

To apply for this vacancy, please use the ‘Apply now’ button on this page. You are kindly asked to quote the vacancy number and upload the following documents:

• A full CV including a list of publications, your teaching experience and a link to your Google Scholar page;
• pdf’s or links to 3 key publications and your PhD thesis;
• A brief description of your research plan (max. 2 pages)
• A teaching statement (max. ½ page);
• Name and address of at least three persons that can be contacted for a reference

Only applications received no later than September 30, 2026, will be considered.