In the Department of Living Matter Physics (LMP) we seek to fill a number of PhD positions (f/m/d).

The Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization (MPI-DS) at Göttingen, Germany, is an international, interdisciplinary and collaborative environment offering an exceptional research setting. It hosts a range of theoretical and experimental fundamental scientific research and a diverse group of researchers. Altogether, it employs about 300 people.

The LMP department engages in a wide range of theoretical research aimed at understanding the dynamics of living systems from a physical perspective. The department currently hosts Ramin Golestanian (director), Jaime Agudo-Canalejo (group leader), Philip Bittihn (group leader), Benoît Mahault (group leader), Suropriya Saha (group leader), Andrej Vilfan (group leader), and a number of postdoctoral researchers, students, and visitors.

The research

The PhD students will engage in theoretical and computational research in Nonequilibrium Statistical Physics of Active Matter and Living Systems. Possible topics include chemical and mechanical nonequilibrium activity and flow of information across the scales.

Your profile

We are looking for excellent, enthusiastic and self-motivated early-career researchers with good communication skills to join our research team.

The PhD candidate should have:

• A Master’s degree (or comparable) in theoretical physics, applied mathematics or related disciplines from a recognized university.
• Strong interest in nonequilibrium statistical physics and the physics of living systems across the scales.
• Ability and desire to work in a multi-disciplinary international team.
• Good command of English, which is the working language of the department. German is an asset but not required.

Our offer

We are offering excellent working conditions in a highly interdisciplinary and stimulating research environment. Salary and working hours are in accordance with the funding guidelines of the Max Planck Society for junior scientists. Working hours are fulltime; salary is 2/3 of E13 TVöD-Bund. Furthermore, we offer opportunities regarding work life balance as well as health promotion services. The PhD position is limited to three years. The starting date is flexible.

The Max-Planck Society is committed to achieving the highest level of excellence and diversity. We encourage applications from women, especially in areas where they are underrepresented, which includes theoretical physics. Moreover, we are committed to providing suitable working environment for everyone including individuals with disabilities.

Your application

To apply please use our online form and submit your CV, your academic records, a statement of your research interests, and contacts of two referees. Processing of applications will start after the first deadline of 1st December 2022, and will stop on 1st April 2023. Outside of this cycle, special consideration will be given to those who need an accelerated processing of their application. You are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

For questions, please contact:

Prof. Dr. Ramin Golestanian
Tel. +49 551 5176-100
Email: ramin.golestanian@ds.mpg.de

Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization
Prof. Dr. Ramin Golestanian
Am Faßberg 17
37077 Göttingen
Germany