Background
Hasselt University seeks an internationally recognized, highly qualified theoretician with a proven track record in biophysics to join the Theory Lab, a research group of the Capacity Group Physics.  Theory Lab currently conducts research in the area of nonequilibrium statistical physics and aims to diversify its research program in line with the priority research areas of Hasselt University. More information and a list of current topics at https://www.uhasselt.be/UH/Onderzoeksgroepen/DetOndgr.html?oid=85. You are expected to broaden the existing research activities of Theory Lab by establishing independently new research lines in the domain of theoretical biophysics.

Education task
You make a significant contribution to the educational activities within the programs of the Bachelor of Physics and the future Master of Materiomics, with a strong emphasis on the theoretical components of the curriculum. You supervises projects of BSc and Msc students. Innovation in education is expected, as is aligning with the current educational concepts of the Faculty of Science and Hasselt University.

Research mission
You will initiate and carry out innovative theoretical research in line with the broadened strategy of Theory Lab, linking with the present expertise in statistical physics. The main objective is to develop new theoretical models or using existing state-of-the-art theoretical methods to investigate various biological systems with a focus on the interplay between theory and experiments. You are expected to contribute to the exploration of applications at the interface between biophysics and technology, as for example in energy conversion and bio-sensing, in close collaboration with existing experimentally focused groups. Dynamic research efforts in this area must enable you to build independent and original new research lines within Theory Lab, stimulating collaboration with the existing statistical, quantum and (bio-)materials research of Hasselt University.
You are expected to actively acquire third-party funding, to supervise doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, and to contribute to the development of the research program and service activities of Theory Lab. You will develop a national and international network with stakeholders in relevant fields, actively pursuing (inter)national research collaborations.

Profile

• You obtained a Phd in Physics (or equivalent)
• You have minimal three years of proven postdoctoral experience in theoretical (bio-)physics.
• You have performed excellent research and has published in high-impact peer reviewed international scientific journals.
• You have international work experience, a proven international network and proven experience in successful external project acquisition in the research domain.
• Experience with the management of research projects is an asset.
• You have a clear vision on the development of (interdisciplinary) collaborations with internal and external partners.
• You have the necessary teaching, communication, and organizational skills to provide high-quality teaching. You have experience in guiding students.
• You have good relational, communicative and reporting skills.
• You have a good knowledge of English.
• Academic staff needs to comply with the language regulations for the administrative language (Dutch, CEFR level B2) and the language of instruction (Dutch and/or English, CEFR level C1). Hasselt University provides tailor-made support to help reach the required language level if necessary according to the Flemish language regulation.

Offer

• We will offer:
  •  either an appointment as a lecturer in the tenure track system during 5 years. This will lead to an immediate permanent contract as a senior lecturer, if the Board of Directors favorably assesses the party involved, based on previously set public grading criteria.
  • Otherwise, we will offer a fulltime appointment as a lecturer or higher, which will lead to tenure. In case of a first appointment as a member of the academic staff, the Board of Directors of the University can decide on a temporary appointment for a period up to 3 years. This will lead to a permanent contract if the Board of Directors favorably assesses the party involved.

Selection procedure
You can only apply online up to and including 21 April 2021.
The selection procedure consists of a preselection based on application file, an interview and a test lesson / presentation.
If selected for an interview you are expected to give a lecture and a presentation on your scientific accomplishments and vision.

Further information
Prof. dr. Bart CLEUREN, +32-11-268221, bart.cleuren@uhasselt.be
Prof. dr. ir. Koen VANDEWAL, +32-11-268879, koen.vandewal@uhasselt.be

More about working at Hasselt University? Check www.uhasselt.be/vacancies for our staff benefits.