Assistant Professor Applied Mathematics

Function description

Within the Chair Mathematical Methods of Wageningen University we have a vacancy for an assistant professor in Applied Mathematics. His area of research is intended to be Systems Biology. This relatively new field of research connects the fields of mathematical modelling and biology. Especially at the lower levels of aggregation in biology (cell, tissue, organs) a tremendous progress in experimental possibilities has taken place. Consequently, the role of mathematical modelling is becoming more and more important, since modelling is the natural way to deduce insight in the mechanisms underlying the many processes driving living systems. Not only the lower levels of aggregations are studied within our chair group, we also develop models for the ecological levels and study how to connect the different levels.
As a candidate, you are expected to develop a research profile in Systems Biology that strengthens the ongoing research in the group and forms or develops into an own line of research. You are capable of attracting PhDs and external funding, are a stimulating teacher in courses for non-mathematicians, and contribute in a significant way to the international profile of the group.

Requirements:

You are a good researcher and teacher. Preferably, your background is mathematics with a strong emphasis on mathematical modelling. Candidates with a background in physics, chemistry, informatics, or biology may also apply, provided that they have a very strong inclination to the mathematical aspects of these fields. You are experienced in applying your modelling skills in the Life Sciences, or strongly intending to obtain this experience. You are holding a PhD degree and your expertise has led to an ample publication record. Your profile shows that you can link your mathematical knowledge to Life Science applications, and that you have experience in multi-disciplinary research. Since within Biometris the mathematics group is strongly connected with the statistical group, knowledge of statistical modelling approaches is an advantage.
You are a motivating teacher with proven experience in developing and teaching mathematics courses for non-mathematicians, both at elementary and more advanced levels. You are able to present the elementary math courses in Dutch.
You have demonstrated to be successful in obtaining research grants in competitive funding schemes to fund your own research.
You are a team player and team builder with a keen interest in collaborative research and willing to contribute to the general tasks of the chair group. You have the capabilities and ambition to become - after a preparatory phase of successive promotions – (personal) professor.

Group information

Biometris is the central group for mathematics and statistics at Wageningen University and Research Centre. The group consists of about 65 people. Education and consultation are pivotal for the societal role of Biometris. Education is at the very heart of the university and Biometris provides all BSc courses on statistics and mathematics at Wageningen UR, as well as numerous other courses for MSc and PhD students, post-docs and industry.  Biometris also provides statistical and mathematical consultancy and training to researchers inside and outside Wageningen UR.

Within Biometris we focus our research on the development of mathematical and statistical techniques that may be applied in the Life Sciences. In this way, we contribute to the scientific and societal impact of Wageningen UR. Our vision can be expressed by the slogan: “Quantitative methods brought to life”. Consequently, our research is generally done in cooperation with other groups both in and outside Wageningen. Our research is centred around a number of themes: Systems Biology and Ecology, Statistical Genetics and Genomics, Food and Health, and Consultation. Our capital lies in the mathematical and statistical expertise of our employees. We therefore strive to keep our employees motivated and scientifically up-to-date and offer ample opportunities for personal development. For general information, see: www.biometris.wur.nl

Tenure Track

Wageningen University offers talented scientists a challenging Tenure Track career trajectory. Once appointed as an Assistant Professor you can grow into a Professor holding a Personal Chair. Career steps follow an assessment of performance at predefined times by a tenure track committee. Excellent proven performance can be rewarded with an initial appointment as Associate Professor. You are expected to develop your own research line, maintain a research group and (co-)supervise PhD students. Up to 40% teaching is foreseen in your appointment. We offer you a temporary contract for 38 hours per week, which can lead to a permanent employment contract. Gross salary per month: from € 3324,- to € 4551.- based on full time employment and dependent on expertise and experience. The selected candidates will be interviewed by a recruitment committee(second round).

For questions about this vacancy you can contact prof. Jaap Molenaar, e-mail: jaap.molenaar@wur.nl.

For more information about Tenure Track within Wageningen UR look at

http://www.wur.nl/en/Jobs/Why-choose-Wageningen-UR/Your- development-in-focus/Tenure-Track.htm

How to apply

You can apply online via http://www.wur.nl/en/Jobs/Vacancies.htm . Please upload a cover letter, your CV, and a research and teaching statement  before 21 February 2015.