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Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

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sdgs/sdg overall
Sustainability Impact Rated
Amsterdam, Netherlands
=176th in World University Rankings 2026
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About Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Basic information and contact details for Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Founded in 1880 by the Neo-Calvinist theologian and former prime minister Abraham Kuyper, VU Amsterdam was the first university in the Netherlands to be independent from the church or state, although it retained close Protestant ties. Its full name, Vrije Universiteit, translates as “Free University”, signifying the strong emphasis that the institution placed on academic independence from the outset.

VU Amsterdam began life in a few rented rooms on the Amstel river and as it continued to grow, it began to occupy more buildings in the city. However, since 1968, the university has been housed on a single campus in the southern Buitenveldert area of Amsterdam, adjacent to the Zuidas business district.

In 2009 work began on renovating and modernising the campus to accommodate its rapidly expanding student population, which today numbers just over 23,000. The ongoing modernisation project, which will effectively double the size of the university, encompasses the Main Building, the New University Building, the O|2 Lab Building and a new campus square, along with further student accommodation. The university’s aim is to create an environment that is car-free, with green roofs and squares that act as meeting places.

VU Amsterdam provides a wide variety of study options, taught by 2,500 academic staff based at 11 faculties. It offers nearly 50 undergraduate degree programmes and more than 100 master’s programmes, many of which are taught in English. The university also has a strong focus on scientific research and is home to five Spinoza (the “Dutch Nobel”) prizewinners.

Notable alumni include cycling world champion Ellen van Dijk and Amazon vice-president Werner Vogels.

 

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Key Student Statistics

A breakdown of student statistics at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

gender ratio
Student gender ratio
57 F : 43 M (1)
globe fill
International student percentage
20% (1)
student per staff
Students per staff
15.8 (1)
student
Student total
31949 (1)

Based on data collected for the (1) World University Rankings 2026

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Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computer Science

DURHAM UNIVERSITY

Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham

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Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham


The Role and Department You will be hosted at the Department of Computer Science at Durham University. The Department hosts well-equipped labs with on-site capabilities comprising vehicle-mounted sensors (LiDAR, radar, camera, GPS/IMU), drone operations, on/off-road robotics, high-precision geo-localisation, BCI/EEG bio-signal data collection, robotic arm manipulation, X-ray security imaging, virtual reality and on-demand wide-area surveillance video feeds. In addition, Durham University hosts the UK regional supercomputer, Bede (128 NVIDIA V100 GPUs) which complements our departmental NVIDIA CUDA Compute Cluster (80+ GPUs up to NVIDIA A100) to cater for the increasing GPU compute demands of modern AI-driven research projects. The Department itself is based in the newly built Mathematical and Computer Sciences building - a £42 million, 9,160m2 state-of-the-art research and education facility, located on the University's Upper Mountjoy Campus co-located with the Department of Mathematics. The Role Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computer Science with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence design and development. The post will focus on developing cutting-edge AI architecture with sensing hardware for small-object tracking, contributing to real-world challenges in space technology. The successful candidate will work on research and development at the intersection of AI, sensing, and space systems. The post is a part of the SpaceWatch project led by Prof. Hubert P. H. Shum, which focuses on deployable ground-based sensors for the detection, tracking and characterisation of space objects to support sustainable space operations. As space becomes increasingly congested with satellites and debris, the project brings together expertise in AI, sensing, telescopes, digital twins and edge computing to develop practical and trusted tracking capability. The post is supervised by Prof. Hubert P. H. Shum, who is a Professor of Visual Computing and the Director of Research for the Department of Computer Science at Durham University, specialising in modelling spatio-temporal information with responsible AI. He is also a Co-Founder and the Co-Director of Durham Space Research Centre. He chaired conferences such as Pacific Graphics, BMVC and SCA. He has authored over 200 research publications in the fields of Computer Vision, Computer Graphics and AI in Healthcare, underpinned by Responsible AI designs and algorithms. More information about Prof. Shum and his research team can be found on https://hubertshum.com    

Salary

£38,784 - £46,049 per annum

Posted

28 Apr 2026

Senior Strategy, Planning and Insight Officer

DURHAM UNIVERSITY

Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham

institution

Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham


The Role and the Department The Strategy, Planning and Insight Office aims to be an indispensable partner in driving forward Durham University's positioning and performance, supporting decisions on our strategy, academic business model, critical initiatives, plans and investments. As the insight hub for the University, we bring together management information, business intelligence, market insight, sector intelligence, risk analysis, horizon scanning, forecasting and modelling expertise. We seek to be at the forefront of professional practice in strategic analysis and planning, providing exceptional service in strengthening the reputation, quality and financial sustainability of the University. The purpose of the Senior Officer role is to deliver analytical and planning work across multiple areas of the team's functions. You will support the key processes such the Integrated Planning Process, new Strategy Development and Rankings analytics. You will be instrumental in delivering key analysis and insights, providing evidence and advice to support strategic opportunities for academic Faculties and Departments You will contribute to the team's work in Business Intelligence, data analysis and reporting; you may already have strong skills in this area, or we can offer significant training including the possibility of an advanced apprenticeship for those who want to develop their analytical or technical skills. We currently use Power BI and Alteryx; you will use these tools and support our customers to engage with the outputs we produce. The team interacts with a wide range of other staff in the University, including members of the University Executive Committee (UEC), Research & Innovation Services, Recruitment & Admissions and Marketing & Communications, to support the development and delivery of strategy. We are a customer-focussed and outward-looking team, with opportunities to be involved in many diverse areas of the University's work. Further information about the responsibilities of the Strategy, Planning and Insight team can be found at the end of this page. Further information about the role and the responsibilities is at the bottom of this job description.

Salary

£38,784 - £46,049 per annum

Posted

28 Apr 2026

Director of Curtin Materials Institute

CURTIN UNIVERSITY

Curtin University

Australia, Perth

institution

Curtin University

Australia, Perth


Competitive remuneration + 17% super contributions Full time, 4 Year Academic Leadership Opportunity | Bentley Campus On-campus amenities including a gym, medical centre, and childcare facilities  Job reference: 1421914 Inaugural Director of the Curtin Materials Institute | Bentley (Boorloo) Campus | Full Time, 4-year Leadership Opportunity Curtin Materials Institute (CMI): Advancing Materials, Shaping the Future Curtin University is seeking an exceptional and visionary leader to serve as the inaugural Director of the Curtin Materials Institute. The CMI is a newly-established research institute that captures Curtin’s capability across the breadth of materials research. This is a rare opportunity to build, shape and lead a high-profile institute that consolidates Curtin’s world-class sustainable materials research across advanced manufacturing, green metals and composites, energy systems and battery materials, mineral processing, construction materials and corrosion science. CMI unites previously distributed strengths across schools, and research centres, creating a cohesive platform that elevates Curtin’s leadership in materials innovation. The Institute serves as a central gateway for industry and government engagement, research funding, and global recognition, with a mission to tackle major industrial, national, and sustainability challenges through both fundamental science and application-driven innovation. The Institute is underpinned by world-class analytical facilities housed within the John de Laeter Centre (https://jdlc.curtin.edu.au).  About the Role Working closely with and reporting to the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Science and Engineering, as the Director, you will: Shape the Institute’s vision and long-term growth, aligning research priorities with Curtin University, state, and national objectives. Represent Curtin internationally, building high-impact partnerships with industry, government, and research institutions. Guide programs, shared facilities, and postgraduate initiatives while fostering a collaborative, inclusive, high-performance culture. Secure diverse research funding, identify commercialisation opportunities, and raise the Institute’s global profile. Forge strategic partnerships with industry, government, and research institutions. Manage budgets, and governance, embedding equity, diversity, and inclusion across the Institute. Provide academic leadership and advance the Institute’s research excellence. This position offers a unique chance to create a lasting legacy by establishing Curtin as a global leader in materials innovation and shaping the future of research, industry partnerships, and national capability. About You Selection Criteria As Director, you will be a globally recognised academic leader in materials research and innovation, driving interdisciplinary collaboration, strategic growth, and external engagement. Specifically we are looking for: Qualification: A doctoral qualification in a relevant discipline Leadership: Demonstrated ability to inspire and drive a shared vision, bringing about change and fostering commitment to Curtin’s values of respect, integrity, courage, excellence, and impact Academic Standing and Credibility: Current appointment as Professor (ALE) with experience managing organisational units in a university setting. International recognition in academia, with strong connections to industry and community. Strategic Focus: Forward-looking and outcomes-focused, with a strong understanding of internal and external operating environments. Proven ability to translate institutional strategy into clear, locally relevant priorities, plans and initiatives. Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: Demonstrated commitment to advancing equity and diversity, with the ability to identify key challenges and implement meaningful strategies to foster an inclusive and supportive environment. Communication and Influence: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage, influence and negotiate effectively across diverse stakeholders, and to build and sustain strong internal and external relationships. People Management: Proven capacity to build high-performing, inclusive cultures; and empower individuals and teams to achieve excellence. Research Excellence and Innovation: Demonstrated capacity to drive research excellence, innovation and continuous improvement, including the ability to lead impactful, interdisciplinary initiatives. Global Perspective: Ability to position the Institute within a global context, contributing to Curtin’s ambition to be a leading international university through high-impact research and engagement. Industry Engagement: Demonstrated experience building and sustaining strategic partnerships with industry, and driving greater industry embeddedness with respect to educational programs and research. You can access the Candidate Brochure for this role by copying and pasting this link into your browser: https://tinyurl.com/35a6krw4 Role Requirements You will require current work rights in Australia that match the tenure of this role to be considered. Successful applicants are subject to a National Police Clearance, and background, integrity, and reference checks to Curtin’s satisfaction. About the Team The Curtin Materials Institute (CMI) unites Curtin University’s leading research in materials - from advanced manufacturing and energy systems to minerals, construction, corrosion, and biomedical materials. By consolidating expertise across the schools and centres of Science and Engineering, CMI fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, drives industry and government engagement, and delivers innovative, industry-ready solutions to major national and global challenges. CMI sits within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, a vibrant, research-intensive community with world-class facilities and strong industry partnerships. The Faculty’s researchers tackle complex challenges across energy, minerals, environmental science, digital technologies, and engineering, translating discovery into real-world impact. Together, CMI and the Faculty offer a collaborative, high-performance environment where researchers shape the future of materials innovation and advance Curtin’s global reputation. For more information on our Faculty please visit: https://www.curtin.edu.au/about/learning-teaching/science-engineering/ About Curtin University Curtin University proudly stands among the top one percent of global universities according to the ARWU 2025 rankings. We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live. Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace At Curtin University, we are passionate about fostering an inclusive, diverse and welcoming environment in which all people feel respected, valued and safe. Curtin is dedicated to promoting gender equity and inclusivity in all areas. We are proud of our achievements to date and recognise that there is more to do to improve employment outcomes for women and people of diverse gender identities, particularly in STEMM disciplines. As an Athena SWAN accredited institution, we celebrate diversity and actively work to advance the representation of women and gender-diverse people in STEMM areas and empower individuals so they can thrive in their careers through a range of supportive initiatives, including leadership training, mentorship for early career progression and promotion, networking opportunities, and other professional development resources. As reflected in the Athena Swan Charter, gender equality is a broader issue that extends beyond barriers affecting women alone, and we are committed to addressing these challenges holistically. We offer a competitive remuneration and benefits package, including: 17% superannuation, plus a variety of salary packaging options. Excellent Leave Entitlements: Paid Parental leave (26 weeks for the primary caregiver and 3 weeks for non-primary) subject to eligibility criteria outlined in the Enterprise Agreement; personal leave (14 days) and annual leave (20 days) Enjoy 12 Public Holidays each year (including Easter Tuesday!), and 2 extra University Days over the Christmas/New Year Period (see EBA 51.1 and 51.9). On-campus childcare (priority given to Curtin staff and students), breastfeeding facilities, and medical centre Flexible work arrangements including return to work provisions Academic Carer Support Scheme and comprehensive wellbeing initiatives (for more information please visit: https://www.curtin.edu.au/about/values-vision-strategy/diversity-equity/gender-equity-and-inclusion/) We believe that diverse perspectives fuel innovation and drive excellence, and we encourage women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of diverse gender, sex and sexuality, people with disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to join us in shaping the future of STEMM together and making tomorrow better.  What We Offer You This Professorial position attracts a remuneration package of $223,135 (ALE) + 17% superannuation. Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and endless food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services and an array of discounts for retail, travel and much more.   For more reasons to work at Curtin, please visit https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/   Join Us! If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents:  Up to date Resume Cover Letter outlining your interest and demonstrating how your background meets the position’s selection criteria (noted above). If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, please contact our careers team on CurtinCareers@curtin.edu.au or 08 9266 9000 (option 3,1), quoting the reference number. [SR8] Please note, late applications or applications received via email will not be considered, and only successful candidates will be contacted. Applications close: 9PM (AWST), Tuesday 26 May 2026 Curtin reserves the right at its sole discretion to withdraw from the recruitment process, not to make an appointment, or to appoint by invitation, at any time. We reserve the right to remove the advert earlier than the date on the advert.

Salary

$223,135 (ALE) + 17% superannuation

Posted

29 Apr 2026

Lab Manager (m/w/d)

UNIVERSITY OF VIENNA

University of Vienna

Austria, Vienna Danubepier Hov

institution

University of Vienna

Austria, Vienna Danubepier Hov


At the University of Vienna almost 11,000 personalities work together towards answering the big questions of the future. Around 7,700  of them do research and teaching, around 3,000 work in administration and organisation. We are looking for a/an Lab Manager (m/w/d) 91 Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science Startdate: 15.05.2026 | Working hours: 40 | Collective bargaining agreement: §54 VwGr. IVa Reference no.: 5564 If you love to work in a lab then welcome to the team! Our center consists of personalities who want to make a change. Our work is based on respectful communication, professionalism and high aspirations of having a positive impact on society. Your personal sphere of influence: The Centre of Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science is comprised of 15 groups that conduct internationally leading research in the field of microbial ecology and environmental systems science. The Centre's Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science assembles an international, ambitious and committed team and offers an interdisciplinary scientific environment, cutting-edge laboratories and a creative working atmosphere. We are looking for a proactive and highly organized Lab Manager to take care of the daily operations of our research laboratory. This role is central to creating a structured, efficient, and supportive environment that enables high-quality research. A well-equipped and well-organized lab is a key driver of productivity and team motivation. You will act with a high degree of autonomy, lead operational processes, and ensure that the lab runs smoothly and reliably. The position is advertised for 40 hours per week and it is a permanent position; part-time work is possible by mutual agreement. Your future tasks: Coordinate daily lab operations and ensure timely completion of lab duties Onboard new team members, including training in lab procedures, biosafety, equipment, and animal protocols Manage inventory, order reagents, and maintain cost-efficient stock levels while minimizing waste Organize storage systems and oversee annual inventory processes Schedule maintenance and ensure proper functioning of lab equipment Maintain a clean, organized lab environment Oversee sample storage systems (e.g., -80°C, liquid nitrogen) and ensure accurate documentation Supervise quality control of reagents in collaboration with the data manager Coordinate animal facility activities, including colony management, shipments, and statistics Work closely with the PI on budgeting, large orders, and regulatory or logistics-related tasks This is part of your personality: Degree in a chemical-technical or biological field (e.g., apprenticeship, HTL) or a relevant higher education degree (FH/university) or equivalent qualification Proven experience in laboratory management or a similar role in a research environment Mandatory experience with animal research. Gnotobiotic experience desired. Strong expertise in molecular biology, microbiology, flow cytometry, as well as familiarity with relevant laboratory equipment Sound knowledge of quality standards, efficiency principles, and safety regulations in microbiological laboratory work Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to independently manage and prioritize tasks Structured, reliable, and proactive working style with high organizational skills and attention to detail Team-oriented mindset with excellent communication skills and the ability to work in an international environment Proficiency in MS Office Very good English and good German language skills Willingness to continuously learn and further develop professionally What we offer: Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible, family-friendly working hours, remote/hybrid and/or part-time work (upon agreement). Inspiring working atmosphere: You are part of a committed team with diverse university backgrounds in a relaxed work environment. Good public transport connections: Your workplace in the center of beautiful Vienna is easily accessible by public transport. Internal further training: Opportunity to deepen your skills on an ongoing basis. There are over 600 courses to choose from – free of charge. Fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 3.450,30 (14x/year, on a fulltime basis) increases if we can credit professional experience. Equal opportunities for everyone: We look forward to diverse personalities in the team! It’s that easy to apply: With your CV Letter of motivation Certificate of the highest level of education completed Reference letters regarding job-related experiences (if applicable) Via our job portal / apply button If you have any content questions, please contact: Eva Lugbauer eva.lugbauer@univie.ac.at We look forward to new personalities in our team! The University of Vienna has an anti-discriminatory employment policy and attaches great importance to equal opportunities, the advancement of women and diversity. We place particular emphasis on enhancing women’s representation among the academic and general university staff, particularly in leadership roles, and therefore expressly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates. University of Vienna. Space for personalities. Since 1365. Data protection Application deadline: 05/04/2026 Laboratory & Technology

Salary

The basic salary of EUR 3.450,30 (14x/year, on a fulltime basis)

Posted

29 Apr 2026

Policy and Engagement Advisor

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY (ANU)

The Australian National University

Australia

institution

The Australian National University

Australia


Classification: ANU Officer 8 (Administration) Salary package: $121,359 - $129,772 per annum plus 17% superannuation Terms: Full time, Continuing (contingent funded) This position is continuing (contingent funded). The funding that supports this project has an expected end date of 31 December 2030. Position Description and Selection Criteria: PD&PEWER_ANUO8_Policy and Engagement Advisor.pdf Position overview Step into a key role shaping national First Nations economic policy and partnerships. The Policy and Engagement Advisor joins the First Nations Economic Empowerment Alliance (FNEEA) Secretariat, contributing to policy development, stakeholder engagement and delivery of a national reform agenda supporting economic self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Together, the First Nations Economic Empowerment Alliance and the Centre for Indigenous Economic Transformation (CIET) form an Indigenous-led collaboration for transformative economic policy to inform and strengthen the First Nations Economic Partnership. CIET brings research excellence, policy analysis and systems-level insight to turn evidence into practical policy options and capability building. The Alliance brings the authority, experience and networks of First Nations-led organisations, statutory authorities and experts grounded in community realities and rights-based approaches to economic self-determination. The Position The Policy and Engagement Advisor contributes to the Alliance’s policy and partnerships agenda by translating research into actionable policy outcomes and coordinating engagement with First Nations organisations, government, industry and philanthropy. You will lead and contribute to policy development, prepare high-quality briefs and reports, coordinate consultations and engagement activities, and support delivery of policy initiatives and projects. The role works closely with CIET researchers and Alliance partners to ensure policy work is evidence-based, culturally grounded and aligned to national priorities. We’re seeking a highly capable policy professional with experience in policy development, stakeholder engagement and project delivery in complex environments. You will bring strong analytical and communication skills, sound judgement and the ability to build trusted relationships across diverse stakeholders, including First Nations organisations. Experience in government, research, or policy environments will be highly regarded. For further information please contact Corinne Payne, CIET Centre Manager, at Corinne.Payne@anu.edu.au Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information on employment opportunities, contact our Indigenous Employment Consultant on indigenous.employment@anu.edu.au ANU values diversity and inclusion and believes employment opportunities must not be limited by socio-economic background, race, religion or gender. The University actively encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. For more information about staff equity at ANU, visit https://services.anu.edu.au/human-resources/respect-inclusion Application information In order to apply for this role please make sure that you upload the following documents: A statement addressing the selection criteria. No longer than 2-3 pages. A current curriculum vitae (CV) which includes the names and contact details of at least three referees (preferably including a current or previous supervisor). If your CV does not include referees you can complete these online when prompted in the application form. Other documents, if required. Applications which do not address the selection criteria may not be considered for the position. Please note: The successful candidate must have rights to live and work in this country and will be required to undergo a background check during the recruitment process.  An offer of employment is conditional on satisfactory results.  CLOSING DATE: Thursday 21 May 2026 11.55pm (Canberra time)

Salary

$141,990 - $151,833 per annum plus 17% super

Posted

29 Apr 2026

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Subjects Taught at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

See below for a range of subjects taught at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Arts and Humanities

  • Archaeology
  • Architecture
  • Art, Performing Art and Design
  • History, Philosophy and Theology
  • Languages, Literature and Linguistics

Business and Economics

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Business and Management
  • Economics and Econometrics

Computer Science

  • Computer Science

Education Studies

  • Education

Engineering

  • Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Law

  • Law

Life Sciences

  • Agriculture and Forestry
  • Biological Sciences
  • Sport Science

Medical and Health

  • Medicine and Dentistry
  • Other Health

Physical Sciences

  • Chemistry
  • Geology, Environmental, Earth and Marine Sciences
  • Mathematics and Statistics
  • Physics and Astronomy

Psychology

  • Psychology

Social Sciences

  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Geography
  • Politics and International Studies
  • Sociology