During this project, you will work on fundamental graph-theoretic and algorithmic problems in mathematical phylogenetics.
Job descriptionThe Discrete Mathematics and Optimization group within the Delft Institute of Applied Mathematics at TU Delft is offering a full-time PhD position in the area of mathematical phylogenetics.
Phylogenetic networks are directed acyclic graphs often used to represent the evolutionary history of species. They are similar to the frequently seen 'tree of life' diagrams, but also allow for non-vertical evolutionary events called reticulation events, which arise from processes such as hybridization, horizontal gene transfer, and recombination. Creating such networks from DNA sequences requires techniques from graph theory, theoretical computer science (algorithms), and statistics. During this project, you will develop new methods to construct phylogenetic networks and generalize mathematical frameworks of phylogenetic network classes to tackle related problems in the field.
The PhD will be supervised by Yukihiro Murakami. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with postdocs, PhD candidates, and other faculty members of the research group. You will also get to work with various collaborators of Yukihiro Murakami.
Besides carrying out mathematical research and preparing scientific publications, you will be expected to actively participate in seminars and discussions within the department, and to present your work at both national and international conferences and workshops. You will also carry out minor teaching tasks (at most 15% of your time) in English (or possibly Dutch if you are Dutch-speaking). Communication will be in English. If desired, you can take Dutch language courses offered by the TU Delft Language Center.
Job requirements- Strong Background: A Master's degree (or equivalent) in Mathematics or Computer Science or a closely related subject (such as Operations Research), with a solid foundation in graphs, networks, and algorithms. Biological knowledge is a plus, but not necessary.
- Mathematical Maturity: Ability to write mathematical proofs and formal texts as evidenced by a master's thesis report or similar documents.
- Language: Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Communication: You are able to communicate your ideas clearly and work effectively with a diverse set of researchers.
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.
At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration. Challenge. Change. Impact!
Faculty Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science
The Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) brings together three scientific disciplines. Combined, they reinforce each other and are the driving force behind the technology we all use in our daily lives. Technology such as the electricity grid, which our faculty is helping to make completely sustainable and future-proof. At the same time, we are developing the chips and sensors of the future, whilst also setting the foundations for the software technologies to run on this new generation of equipment - which of course includes AI. Meanwhile we are pushing the limits of applied mathematics, for example mapping out disease processes using single cell data, and using mathematics to simulate gigantic ash plumes after a volcanic eruption. In other words: there is plenty of room at the faculty for ground-breaking research. We educate innovative engineers and have excellent labs and facilities that underline our strong international position. In total, more than 1000 employees and 4,000 students work and study in this innovative environment.
Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science.
- Inclusivity: We welcome applications from researchers who will add to the diversity of our team, in the broad and intersectional sense of the word.
Conditions of employment
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.
Additional information
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than March 22, 2026, via the application button and upload the following documents:
- A motivation letter of at most one A4 paper.
- A detailed CV.
- Grade transcript
- A copy of your (draft) Master's thesis, or a report from a similar mathematical project.
Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.
Please note:
- You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
- As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.