PhD Position in Probabilistic and Extremal Combinatorics
Explore cutting-edge combinatorial challenges inspired by physical phenomena under expert supervision in Amsterdam.
Best for:Best for mathematically mature master’s graduates with curiosity-driven research interests in combinatorics, strong collaboration skills, and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary problem-solving.
Overview
This PhD position at the University of Amsterdam focuses on probabilistic and extremal combinatorics, bridging qualitative research with structural graph theory and discrete probability. Embedded in the Discrete Mathematics and Quantum Information (DMQI) group at the Korteweg-de Vries Institute for Mathematics (KdVI), the candidate will conduct independent research under the guidance of Ross Kang (UvA) and Carla Groenland (TU Delft). The project, part of the ‘Combinatorial Condensation’ programme, combines theoretical rigor with interdisciplinary collaboration, including travel to Delft and international conferences. Teaching support and thesis supervision duties are also part of the role, offering a dynamic environment for early-career researchers.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent, curiosity-driven research in probabilistic and extremal combinatorics, focusing on phase transitions and combinatorial challenges within the ‘Combinatorial Condensation’ programme.
- Collaborate closely with the principal investigator (Ross Kang) and co-supervisor (Carla Groenland) at TU Delft, as well as with a postdoctoral researcher in the team.
- Participate in international research networks, attend conferences, and engage in occasional travel to Delft and other (inter)national meetings.
- Assist in teaching one course per semester, including occasional supervision of bachelor’s or master’s theses.
- Develop an educational plan with coursework and research milestones, tailored to your PhD trajectory.
- Present research findings at academic conferences and contribute to the broader research community in discrete mathematics.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in mathematics or a closely related discipline (e.g., applied mathematics, theoretical computer science).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; no formal proficiency test required (fluency sufficient).
Instruction: English
- Mathematical maturity equivalent to a master’s degree in mathematics, demonstrated through coursework and research experience.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills for interdisciplinary teamwork.
- Prior experience in independent mathematical research, such as through a university thesis or internship.
- Fluency in English (no Dutch proficiency required).
- Basic familiarity with programming or mathematical computational software (e.g., Python, MATLAB, SageMath).
- No nationality restrictions.
- No age or residency restrictions.
- Must hold a master’s degree in mathematics or a related field by the start of the position.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-14
Applicants must submit a single PDF file containing a detailed CV (with monthly work/education timelines), optional letter of motivation, itemized transcripts, and contact details for two references. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the deadline.
- CV with detailed monthly timelines for education/work experience
- Optional letter of motivation
- Detailed, itemized transcripts
- Names and email addresses of two references
Contact
Ross Kang· Principal Investigator
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