PhD in Universality in random trees and graphs (1.0 FTE)

Department

Faculty of Science and Engineering

Organisation

Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, University of Groningen, V24.0183

Job description

Randomness and random shapes can be found everywhere around us, for example the shape of a tree is influenced by random interactions both between and within its cells, and random external influences. This random growth causes trees in nature to have self-similar, fractal-like properties. Underlying random growth also makes our backyard oak look remarkably similar to other structures in nature and systems of human design, such as the shape of river systems; the circulatory system in animals; and the connectivity structure of the internet and digital social networks. Broccolis looking like trees is a consequence of a universality principle in random structures: the precise random dynamics of cell growth in the two organisms is different, but those differences have a negligible effect on the overall structure.

The goal of this PhD project is to examine universality in random trees and graphs. (Morally, you will rigorously prove what it takes to look like a broccoli.) The focus will lie on directed graphs (in which edges have directions) and dynamical trees and graphs (in which the connectivity structure evolves over time). This research requires the PhD candidate to develop new combinatorial sampling methods, and to use techniques from (stochastic) analysis to study limiting properties. The PhD candidate will acquire skills that are broadly applicable in combinatorics and analysis, and in discrete and continuous probability theory.

The objective of the temporary position is the production of a number of research articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and conference proceedings, which together will form the basis of a thesis leading to a PhD degree (Dr) at the University of Groningen. The position comes with a light teaching duty. The candidate will become a member of the Probability and Statistics Group of the Mathematics Department and will work under the supervision of Serte Donderwinkel.

Organisation
Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen enjoys an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative institution of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Flexible study programmes and academic career opportunities in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 34,000 students and researchers alike to develop their own individual talents. As one of the best research universities in Europe, the University of Groningen has joined forces with other top universities and networks worldwide to become a truly global center of knowledge.

Requirements

The successful candidate should

- have a Master’s degree or equivalent in mathematics or another relevant field with sufficient mathematical content; preferably with a focus on combinatorics or probability theory
- have good English language and communication skills.

Conditions of employment

Contract length: 48 months.

We offer you, following the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities

- a salary of € 2,770 gross per month in the first year, up to a maximum of € 3,539 gross per month in the fourth and final year for a full-time working week
- a holiday allowance of 8% gross annual income and an 8.3% year-end bonus
- a full-time position (1.0 FTE).

The successful candidate will first be offered a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another three years. Prolongation of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year to indicate that a successful completion of the PhD thesis within the next three years is to be expected. A PhD training programme is part of the agreement and the successful candidate will be enrolled in the Graduate School of Science and Engineering.

Preferred starting date: September 1 (or in consultation with the candidate)

Job Application

Application should include - a cover letter describing your background and motivation (max 1 page) - a CV - transcripts from your Bachelor’s and Master’s degree (or a list of grades/proof of enrolment if you are near finishing) - a letter of recommendation that should be sent directly to s.a.donderwinkel@rug.nl. (please mention your reference letter writer in your cover letter). You may apply for this position until 14 May 11:59pm / before 15 May 2024 Dutch local time (CEST) by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website). Applications received before 14 May 2023 will be given full consideration; however, the position will remain open until it is filled. The University of Groningen strives to be a university in which students and staff are respected and feel at home, regardless of differences in background, experiences, perspectives, and identities. We believe that working on our core values of inclusion and equality are a joint responsibility and we are constructively working on creating a socially safe environment. Diversity among students and staff members enriches academic debate and contributes to the quality of our teaching and research. We therefore invite applicants from underrepresented groups in particular to apply. For more information, see also our diversity policy webpage: https://www.rug.nl/about-ug/policy-and-strategy/diversity-and-inclusion/ Our selection procedure follows the guidelines of the Recruitment code (NVP): https://www.nvp-hrnetwerk.nl/nl/sollicitatiecode and European Commission's European Code of Conduct for recruitment of researchers: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/charter/code We provide career services for partners of new faculty members moving to Groningen. Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

Additional information

For additional information, please contact:

Should you have any questions regarding the position
s.a.donderwinkel@rug.nl

In your application, please always include the job opening ID V24.0183

Digital application form