PhD in Molecular Machines Physics 2027 at VU Amsterdam

Project Overview

About the Position

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU) offers a PhD position on the physics of synthetic molecular motors within the international consortium "Joining Forces for Human-Made Molecular Machines." The position is hosted by the Department of Physics and Astronomy at VU Amsterdam and is one of nine PhD/PD positions funded by the NWO-XL consortium led by principal investigator Iddo Heller.

Research Position Overview

In this PhD project, you will investigate the physics of light-driven synthetic molecular motors and of the transport machines built from them, using advanced single-molecule techniques. Molecular motors are intriguing nanomachines that convert fuel to useful work and directed motion.

Research Areas

Synthetic molecular motors driven by light
Transport machines built from molecular motors
Advanced single-molecule techniques
Molecular machine physics
Nanoscale motion and work conversion

Funding and Duration

Component	Details
Award or position	PhD position (employment contract)
Stipend / salary	€3,204–€4,051 gross/month
Duration	Initially 1 year, extendable to 4 years after assessment
Start date	1 January 2027

Eligibility and Requirements

Criterion	Requirement
Applicant eligibility	Worldwide
Academic preparation	MSc in physics, chemistry, nanoscience or a related field
Language	English proficiency required
Further conditions	Interest in single-molecule experiments and molecular motors

Application dates

Component	Details
Recruitment status	Open
Deadline	31 October 2026 (may close earlier when filled)
Location	Amsterdam, Netherlands

About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a research university in the Netherlands with strengths in physics, molecular sciences, and interdisciplinary research. Its Department of Physics and Astronomy hosts the NWO-XL consortium on human-made molecular machines.

Official details: Read the programme or project information

Application route: Follow the official application instructions

Contact

Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.

Official Link

Full announcement and application portal: https://workingat.vu.nl/vacancies/phd-physics-of-human-made-molecular-machines-amsterdam-1333878

Source: workingat.vu.nl - the details in this listing were recorded from this official page.

Important Notes

Application deadline: 31 October 2026 - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.

How to Apply

Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline: 31 October 2026 (may close earlier when filled). Read the eligibility requirements carefully and prepare all requested documents — early applications are strongly recommended for competitive awards.

Open the official application page ↗

Application guides

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Frequently asked questions

Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.

What is the deadline for PhD in Molecular Machines Physics 2027 — Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands?

The application deadline is 31 October 2026. Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source gives neither a closing time nor a time zone.

Is PhD in Molecular Machines Physics 2027 — Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands fully funded?

This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. €3,204–€4,051 gross/month.

Who is eligible to apply for PhD in Molecular Machines Physics 2027 — Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands?

This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for Netherlands. Applications are assessed by Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

How do I apply for PhD in Molecular Machines Physics 2027 — Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands?

Applications for PhD in Molecular Machines Physics 2027 — Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands are submitted directly to Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.

Is an English proficiency test required for PhD in Molecular Machines Physics 2027 — Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands?

Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for Netherlands are published by the provider.

What study level does PhD in Molecular Machines Physics 2027 — Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands offer?

This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.

Hosted by

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a research university in the Netherlands with strengths in physics, molecular sciences, and interdisciplinary research.

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PhD in Molecular Machines Physics 2027 — Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands