We are looking for an outstanding experimental physicist or (physical-)chemist at the MSc level with an interest in material science, soft condensed matter physics, colloids and mechanical properties of soft materials. A proven affinity or experience in using characterisation methods (CSLM, TEM, SEM), mechanical characterisation, rheological and light scattering (SLS, DLS) experimental techniques for characterisation of dispersion based soft condensed systems speaks strongly in your favour. Modelling expertise using Phyton, Matlab is an advantage. We seek a self-motivated, curious and pro-active candidate with excellent communicative and organizational skills.

• Holding a Master Degree in Soft Condensed Matter Physics, Physical-chemistry, Colloids Science, Chemical Engineering, Material Science or related disciplines with minimum "distinction" or “second class upper” (internationals scholars: degree obtained with minimum 70%).

• Fluent in spoken and written English (IELTS min. 7 or TOEFL internet-based min. 90 or similar level as determined by other tests).

• Less than 4 years full-time research experience and not have a doctoral degree

Terms of employment

• 3-year full-time employment contract at Unilever Innovation Center Wageningen - continuation after the first year is dependent upon a positive evaluation. The contract will be extended by 1 year at University of Amsterdam. This should lead to a dissertation (PhD thesis).

• Enrolment in a PhD program at University of Amsterdam (Prof. K.P. Velikov). After successful completion of the research a PhD degree will be granted.

• Supervision by recognized experts and access to state-of-the-art research and pilot-scale equipment

• Additional mobility, travel and career exploratory allowances.

• Training in complementary skills via workshops and conferences

• Less than 4 years full-time research experience and not have a doctoral degree

To apply please attach a letter of motivation describing research career goals, skills and experience, curriculum vitae, list of academic subjects and grades at the master level, and full contact details of two referees. Equal consideration will be given to female or male applicants.

Application deadline is 15 March 2024.

Hive is Unilever’s global Foods Innovation Centre at the Wageningen Campus in the Netherlands, the Silicon Valley of Food. Hive is a home of around 500 employees, innovating on some of the world’s best loved food brands like Knorr, Hellmann’s and Unilever Food Solutions. UFIC conducts research and development on a broad range of food product formats. The research is conducted covers topics of formulation and processing of soft-condensed matter, colloids, and interface science of dispersions (e.g. suspensions, foams, emulsions) and their uses to control product functionality (i.e. appearance, taste, texture, stability, digestion).