PhD in Experimental -Energy Heavy-Ion Physics; ALICE

PhD Candidate in Experimental High-Energy Heavy-Ion Physics (ALICE)

Deadline 1 Mar ’26 Published 10 Feb ’26 Vacancy

Welcome to Maastricht University! The world of physics is constantly evolving—and so are we. At Maastricht University (UM), your research contributes to answering fundamental questions about matter and the universe. Whether you are analysing complex datasets, developing new models, or collaborating internationally, your work here has impact.

To deepen our understanding of heavy-ion collisions through cutting‑edge experimental research with the ALICE detector at CERN.

A collaborative team of researchers at the Maastricht Science Programme (MSP), Nikhef, and international partners within the ALICE collaboration.

Maastricht University and Nikhef are offering a PhD position in Experimental High‑Energy Heavy‑Ion Physics. You will join the research group of Dr. Panos Christakoglou, embedded both at the Maastricht Science Programme (UM) and at Nikhef, the Dutch national institute for subatomic physics.

Your research will focus on the analysis of LHC Run 3 and Run 4 data collected with the ALICE detector  group specialises in correlation studies—such as azimuthal anisotropy, angular correlations, vorticity, and the chiral magnetic effect—as well as heavy‑flavour physics in pp, p–Pb and Pb–Pb collisions. Alongside data analysis, you will contribute to the development of theoretical and phenomenological tools that support current and future heavy‑ion experiments.

You will work in an international and interdisciplinary environment, closely collaborating with researchers at UM, Nikhef, and within the broader ALICE collaboration. The position is based in Maastricht and Amsterdam, with regular opportunities to visit CERN in Geneva.

• Strong academic foundation – You hold, or will soon obtain, a Master’s degree in high‑energy physics, applied physics, or a closely related field.
• Analytical mindset – You enjoy working with complex datasets and extracting meaningful physical insights.
• Technical proficiency – You have experience with, or strong interest in, software tools such as C++, Python and ROOT.
• Research‑oriented attitude – You are motivated to contribute to experimental particle physics and enjoy combining theory with data.
• Collaborative spirit – You value teamwork and feel comfortable working in an international research environment.
• Curiosity for the future – You are eager to learn, develop new skills, and grow as an independent researcher.

At Maastricht University, you will work in an international, open, and supportive academic environment. We offer:

• An employment contract for a period of 12 months with a scope of 1.0 FTE. Upon a positive evaluation, an extension of 3 years will follow.
• A salary graded in scale P (UFO profile Promovendus) ranging from €3,059 to €3,881 gross per month (full‑time, 38 hours).
• 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year‑end bonus.
• 29 vacation days (based on full‑time employment), plus additional public holidays.
• Excellent supervision and training, including courses and annual graduate schools organised by the Dutch Research School for Subatomic Physics.
• Opportunities for international collaboration, including regular research visits to CERN.
• A strong academic community, with close interaction between UM, Nikhef, and international partners.
• A solid pension scheme via ABP and an inspiring research environment in the heart of Europe.

FSE is a young, rapidly growing faculty where science, technology, and society converge. We combine STEM and social sciences in innovative programmes such as Data Science, Circular Engineering, and Systems Biology. Our research and education are interdisciplinary, practice‑oriented, and socially relevant. We take pride in our open culture and strong team spirit.

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