Research Scientists in Computational Modelling for Neutron Science

The European Spallation Source (ESS) is one of Europe’s largest research infrastructure projects and is building the world’s most powerful neutron source. Through cutting-edge science and technology, ESS will enable discoveries that advance our understanding of materials, energy, health, and the environment.

ESS is expanding Data Analysis & User Support (DAUS) group at the Data Management and Scientific Computing Centre (DMSC) located just north of Copenhagen in Denmark. We are seeking outstanding candidates for two computational modelling and simulation positions: one focused on life science and soft matter, and one on hard condensed matter, including magnetic materials and excitations.

About the role

Neutron scattering offers unique insights into how materials are structured and how they behave at the atomic scale. At ESS, we want to combine world-leading experiments with advanced computational methods to help researchers get the most from their data and accelerate scientific discovery.

Computational modelling is becoming an increasingly important part of neutron science. We are interested in approaches such as density functional theory (DFT), molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo and spin dynamics simulations, as well as emerging machine learning and AI methods.

In this role, you will develop new modelling and data analysis approaches for neutron scattering experiments and work closely with ESS scientists, software developers, academic collaborators, and international partners. Your work will help shape the next generation of scientific workflows across the ESS instrument suite. You are also expected to provide modelling support for users’ experiments where relevant.

We are especially interested in candidates with experience connecting simulations, theory, or AI methods to neutron scattering or related experimental techniques. Experience in neutron scattering is valuable, but not required. We also welcome applicants from adjacent computational or experimental fields who are excited to bring their expertise into this rapidly developing area of research.

The role combines scientific research, computational development, and collaboration within a highly international environment where science, software, and innovation come together.

Key responsibilities

The successful candidates will:

• Contribute to advanced computational workflows supporting neutron scattering experiments.
• Work with ESS software developers, scientists, and external collaborators to integrate modelling and analysis methods into the ESS scientific software ecosystem.
• Develop and maintain an internationally recognized research programme aligned with the DMSC strategy.
• Participate in selected user experiments and scientific projects at ESS.
• Build collaborations with universities, research institutes, and ESS partners.

The life science and soft matter position includes opportunities to collaborate with the ESS Lighthouse initiatives CaIFF and NEUDATA4LIFE. For exceptional candidates, ESS may support applications to the Novo Nordisk Foundation Start Package Programme or similar funding opportunities.

We welcome applications from both early-career and established researchers.

What we offer

DMSC is located on the DTU campus in Kongens Lyngby, north of Copenhagen, while the ESS neutron facility is based in Lund, Sweden. Together, they form a unique cross-border scientific environment in the Øresund region.

You will join a dynamic and highly collaborative international workplace with colleagues representing nearly 60 nationalities across ESS and DMSC. We offer flexible working conditions, opportunities for professional development, and close interaction between computational science, instrumentation, and large-scale experiments.

Benefits include 25 + 5 annual leave days in addition to public and company holidays, an attractive pension scheme, preventative healthcare benefits, and relocation support for international hires where applicable.

This is a full-time, permanent position based in Kongens Lyngby, Denmark, and we need someone who can start as soon as practically possible.

Learn more about living and working in Scandinavia: https://ess.eu/living-working-scandinavia

For further information

For information about the position, contact the Group Leader for Data Analysis & User Support (DAUS), Torben Roland Nielsen, at torben.nielsen@ess.eu.

For recruitment-related questions, contact Recruitment Officer Janne Erwolter at janne.erwolter@ess.eu.

Application deadline

Please submit your application no later than 27 September 2026.

Applicants should submit:

• A CV, including relevant computational methods and technical expertise.
• A complete publication list, highlighting up to five relevant publications.
• A statement of research interests and potential collaborations.
• A draft research plan outlining future directions and relevance to ESS and the user programme for the ealier instruments, BIFROST, DREAM, ESTIA, LOKI, NMX, and ODIN

We look forward to receiving your application.

For more information regarding the ESS recruitment process in general, please follow this link: Careers | ESS

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