PhD position in Numerical Analysis

We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated PhD candidate to join as soon as possible the Mathematics of Computational Science (MACS) group within the Department of Applied Mathematics at the University of Twente. You will work under the supervision of Dr. Gregor Gantner on a project dedicated to advancing the field of adaptive methods for time-dependent partial differential equations (PDEs). The position is funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) via the Vidi research project "Optimal adaptive space-time boundary and finite element methods."

The project focuses on the design, numerical analysis, and implementation of novel numerical algorithms to efficiently solve parabolic PDEs such as the heat equation. More precisely, you shall investigate space-time finite element methods (FEM) and space-time boundary element methods (BEM), which both discretize the PDE as a whole, treating time as yet another dimension. In particular, this allows for fully flexible local mesh refinement in the space-time cylinder. You will develop suitable a-posteriori computable estimators for the discretization error to adaptively steer the mesh refinement and mathematically prove that the resulting algorithms converge optimally with respect to the number of mesh elements. You will further implement and thereby validate the theoretical results through numerical experiments.

You will conduct your research in a collaborative, international, and interdisciplinary environment that values both academic excellence and open exchange of ideas. The MACS group offers a stimulating atmosphere with regular discussions, opportunities for collaboration, and access to expertise in numerical analysis, dynamical systems, and high-performance computing. The position includes funding to present your work at leading conferences and engage in international collaborations.

• You have, or will shortly obtain, a master's degree in Mathematics or a closely related field.
• You have a strong background in numerical analysis, in particular numerical methods for partial differential equations.
• You have proficient programming skills, ideally in at least one of the following languages: Matlab, Python, Julia, or C/C++.
• You are an enthusiastic, highly motivated candidate with a creative and analytical mindset.
• You can work independently, maintaining high-quality standards.
• You have a good team spirit and like to work in an internationally oriented environment.
• You are proficient in English.

• As a PhD candidate at UT, you will be appointed to a full‑time position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year, within a very stimulating and exciting scientific environment.
• Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO‑NU).
• You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from €3.059,- (first year) to €3.881,- (fourth year).
• There are excellent benefits, including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end‑of‑year bonus of 0.3%, and a solid pension scheme.
• The flexibility to work (partially) from home.
• A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full‑time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A full‑time employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis.
• Free access to sports facilities on campus.
• A family‑friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid).
• You will have a training programme as part of the Twente Graduate School where you and your supervisors will determine a plan for a suitable education and supervision.

Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before May 21, 2026, and include:

• A Curriculum Vitae, including the names of two possible references, a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, and, if applicable, a list of publications.
• A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), emphasising your specific interest, qualifications, and motivations to apply for this position.

For more information regarding this position, you are welcome to contact Dr. Gregor Gantner (gregor.gantner@utwente.nl).

The faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS) uses mathematics, electronics and computer technology to contribute to the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). With ICT present in almost every device and product we use nowadays, we embrace our role as contributors to a broad range of societal activities and as pioneers of tomorrow's digital society. As part of a tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.