PhD Position: Numerical Analysis for Inverse Wave Scattering

Radboud University

Faculty of Science

The Faculty of Science (FNWI), part of Radboud University, engages in groundbreaking research and excellent education. In doing so, we push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and pass that knowledge on to the next generation.

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Radboud University

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1. Introduction

How can we see what is hidden? And how much can we trust the reconstruction? Answering these questions requires pushing the limits of numerical analysis and computation for wave equations and inverse problems. As a PhD candidate, you will devise and analyse new methods to make this possible. Join a stimulating research environment, contribute to groundbreaking research and engage with an active academic community

2. Job description

We are looking for a PhD candidate with a background in numerical analysis to contribute to the development of numerical methods for inverse problems in wave propagation. You will become a member of the Department of Mathematics at Radboud University (Nijmegen, Netherlands), and join the research group of Laura Scarabosio, funded by the NWO Vidi programme 'Taming Frequency in Bayesian Inverse Wave Scattering'.

Inverse wave scattering involves reconstructing the properties of a spatial region from how it interacts with waves. It lies at the core of scientific discovery and technology, from radar to nanoscale metrology and geophysical exploration. The goal of the programme is to develop and rigorously analyse numerical methods for inverse problems in wave scattering within a Bayesian framework. Building on discretisation and solver techniques for time-harmonic wave propagation (governed by the Helmholtz equation) and sampling techniques (such as Monte Carlo methods), we aim to deliver computational tools capable of achieving high-resolution reconstructions and quantifying their reliability.

As a PhD candidate, you will contribute to the programme's theme through the design, analysis and implementation of efficient numerical methods. You will also take part in light teaching duties (10%), participate in relevant conferences and workshops and publish your findings in peer-reviewed journals. The PhD position is funded for four years and will lead to a PhD degree from Radboud University upon successful completion.

Would you like to learn more about what it's like to pursue a PhD at Radboud University? Visit the page about working as a PhD candidate. 

3. Profile

• You hold, or are working towards, a Master's degree in Mathematics or equivalent (to be completed before the start date).
• You have a strong background in numerical analysis and partial differential equations, and you have experience in scientific computing or programming (e.g., Python). Knowledge of uncertainty quantification or inverse problems is welcome but not required. 
• You have good verbal and written communication skills. 
• You are motivated, proactive and willing to learn (and to struggle), and you can work both independently and in a team. 

4. We are

The position is part of the Applied Mathematics research group within the Department of Mathematics at Radboud University. Research within the group is represented by Riccardo Cristoferi, Gabriel Lord, Vanja Nikolić, Laura Scarabosio, and Stefanie Sonner.

The Department of Mathematics covers a broad range of topics in pure and applied mathematics, with strong interdisciplinary links and active collaborations with industry. It has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with a healthy balance between senior and early-career staff from around the world, and a community of more than 20 PhD candidates. There are regular research seminars as well as a number of informal events throughout the year.

The Department of Mathematics is part of the Institute for Mathematics, Astrophysics and Particle Physics within the Faculty of Science. Several activities are organised jointly across the institute to foster interdisciplinary interaction.

5. We offer

• We will give you a temporary employment contract (1.0 FTE) of 1.5 years, after which your performance will be evaluated. If the evaluation is positive, your contract will be extended by 2.5 years (4-year contract).     
• You will receive a starting salary of €3,059 gross per month based on a 38-hour working week, which will increase to €3,881 in the fourth year (salary scale P).
• You will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8,3% end-of-year bonus. 
• There may be an opportunity for Dual Career Coaching. The Dual Career Coaching assists your partner via support, tools, and resources to improve their chances of independently finding employment in the Netherlands. 
• You will receive extra days off. With full-time employment, you can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20. 

6. Practical information and applying

You can apply only via the button below. Address your letter of application to Laura Scarabosio. In the application form, you will find which documents you need to include with your application. We look forward to receiving your application.

The first interviews will take place on 22 and 23 January. The preferred starting date is 1 April 2026, with possibility for negotiation.

We can imagine you're curious about our application procedure. It describes what you can expect during the application procedure and how we handle your personal data and internal and external candidates. 

Additional employment conditions

Work and science require good employment practices. Radboud University's primary and secondary employment conditions reflect this. You can make arrangements for the best possible work-life balance with flexible working hours, various leave arrangements and working from home. You are also able to compose part of your employment conditions yourself. For example, exchange income for extra leave days and receive a reimbursement for your sports membership. In addition, you receive a 34% discount on the sports and cultural activities at Radboud University as an employee. And, of course, we offer a good pension plan. We also give you plenty of room and responsibility to develop your talents and realise your ambitions. Therefore, we provide various training and development schemes.

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