The Faculty of Science and the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS) are looking for a :
Postdoctoral researcher in Network Science (3 years) (0.8-1.0 FTE)
Vacancy number: 22-503
About this position
Leiden University is seeking an enthusiastic and well-qualified postdoctoral researcher in network science, a field also referred to as complex networks or social network analysis. Unique about this 3-year position, is that there is no specific application area or granted project underlying this position. Instead, candidates are expected to bring a strong interest and experience in the fundamental methods and/or algorithms in network science. This means that the candidate can to a large extent freely determine the scope of research of this 3-year position, as long as it falls within the scope of network science research. Candidates with an interest in (applications in) social networks, economic/corporate networks and scientific collaboration and citation networks, are particularly invited to apply. In case of doubt or questions about suitability of your work for this position, feel very welcome to reach out to dr. Frank Takes (f.w.takes@liacs.leidenuniv.nl) before formally applying.
The candidate will be encouraged to collaborate on projects with other members of the Computational Network Science (CNS, https://cns.liacs.nl) group. The group has access to a large number of relevant open and proprietary network datasets and a wide range of expertises, both in applied and fundamental network science research areas. Moreover, there are ample opportunities to collaborate with other research groups at LIACS in for example data science, text mining and algorithms. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities for interaction and collaboration with other researchers interested in network science. For example at the Faculty of Science through the Leiden Complex Networks Network (LCN2,Leiden Complex Networks Network (LCN2) – Leiden University (universiteitleiden.nl)) and nationally through for example the Dutch Network Science Society (https://www.netsci.nl). In addition, during the appointment, the candidate will integrate within LIACS, the computer science department of Leiden University, and engage in (limited) BSc, MSc and PhD student (co-)supervision, as well as minor scientific organizational activities for the CNS group and the Dutch Network Science Society.
To apply, candidates are required to submit, in addition to an academic CV including a working Google Scholar profile URL, a 2-page proposal detailing the methodological network science research idea that candidate wants to work on together with the PI during the time of appointment.
Key responsibilities
- Conducting research in the area of network science.
- Co-supervising BSc, MSc and PhD students on topics related to data science and network science.
- Serving as a senior member of the CNS research group.
- Engaging in organizing activities in the computer science institute and within the different network science initiatives in Leiden and the Netherlands.
- Securing additional external funding for research (in collaboration with supervisor).
Selection Criteria
- A PhD* in computer science or a related field (e.g., mathematics, physics or computational social science), with a strong track record in network science (or complex networks / social network analysis).
- Excellent writing skills and proficiency of the English language, demonstrated through published first author papers in respected and relevant conference proceedings or journals.
- Experience with programming in Python, and/or R and/or C++.
- Able to work independently, in a team, and in a student (co-)supervisory role.
- An academic, creative and curious mindset.
*: excellent candidates not (yet) past the PhD phase are also invited to apply.
Our organisation
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. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future. The research carried out at the Faculty of Science is very diverse, ranging from mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry and bio-pharmaceutical sciences to biology and environmental sciences. The research activities are organised in eight institutes. These institutes offer eight bachelor’s and twelve master’s programmes. The faculty has grown strongly in recent years and now has more than 2.300 staff and almost 5,000 students. We are located at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks, where university and business life come together.
You will be part of the Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS). LIACS offers courses at the Bachelor and Master of Science level in Computer Science, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, ICT in Business, Media Technology, and Bioinformatics. According to an independent research visitation, LIACS is one of the foremost computer science departments of the Netherlands. We strive for excellence in a caring institute, where excellence, fun, and diversity go hand in hand. We offer a clear and inviting career path to young and talented scientists with the ambition to grow.
Terms and conditions
We offer a full-time (1.0 FTE, or 0.8 FTE if desired by the candidate), fixed-term post for three years, with a salary range from € 2.960,- tot € 4.670,- gross per month (pay scale 10 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 gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break and fixed compensation for relocation costs.
D&I statement
Diversity and inclusion are core values of Leiden University. Leiden University is committed to becoming an inclusive community which enables all students and staff to feel valued and respected and to develop their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High quality teaching and research is inclusive.
Information
Enquiries can be made to dr. Frank Takes, email: f.w.takes@liacs.leidenuniv.nl , telephone: +31 71 527 7143. Should you have any questions regarding this position, then you are explicitly invited to informally reach out to before formally applying.
If you have any questions about the procedure, please contact Alice Bisschop, email jobs@liacs.leidenuniv.nl.
Applications
To apply for this vacancy, please send an email to jobs@liacs.leidenuniv.nl. Please make sure to include the vacancy number and the following attachments:
- A short cover letter of at most 1 page detailing your motivation to apply for the position.
- A research proposal of at most 2 pages describing the network science research idea you wish to work on during your appointment.
- A CV including Google Scholar profile URL, listing relevant academic activities thus far.
- A recent writing example (paper or thesis) that you are proud of and reflects your academic writing skills.
- Names and contact details least two people that can be contacted for reference (who have agreed to be contacted).
Only applications received before 9 september 2022 can be considered.
The selection procedure will take place from September 12, 2022 onwards, until a suitable candidate has been found. Interviews are expected to commence from the last week of September onwards