PhD Position (f/m/x) in Statistical Physics/Quantitative Biology

Land Nordrhein-Westfalen; Köln; Hybrid; EUR 47.000 - 60.000; Teilzeit

Benefits dieser Stelle

Flexible working time

Remote work option

Advanced training

Diversity & equal opportunities

Work-life balance

Zusammenfassung

The University of Cologne invites applications for a PhD position in Statistical Physics/Quantitative Biology within the Institute for Biological Physics, led by Professor Berg. The project spans cancer evolution, resistance dynamics, and immune system modelling, with significant opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.

The position includes a teaching load (in English or German) and a vibrant research environment within CRC1310.

Qualifikationen

• Master’s in physics with excellent grades.
• Strong background in statistical physics.
• Genuine interest in biology.

Aufgaben

• Pursue research projects in cancer evolution, resistance dynamics, and quantitative biology.
• Contribute to modelling using concepts from equilibrium and non‑equilibrium physics; collaborate with experimental groups.

Kenntnisse

Statistical physics

Biology interest

Interdisciplinary teamwork

Ausbildung

Master's in physics

Jobbeschreibung

Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
PhD Position (f/m/x) in Statistical Physics/Quantitative Biology
Institute for Biological Physics | research group of Professor Berg

We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region. Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in science, technology, and administration.

The research environment at the University of Cologne provides an excellent setting for interdisciplinary doctoral training. PhD students have access to a broad range of graduate-level courses and training opportunities through the graduate school BCGS (see https://www.gradschool.physics.uni-koeln.de/). The group is also embedded in a vibrant research landscape, especially the Collaborative Research Centre CRC1310 Predicting Evolution, which brings together researchers from different fields to model and forecast evolutionary dynamics (see https://crc1310.uni-koeln.de/).

We are looking for highly motivated individuals who enjoy working in an international team at the interface between statistical physics and quantitative biology.

YOUR TASKS

• Depending on the interests and background of the successful applicants, projects will be available in cancer evolution, resistance dynamics, and statistical modelling of the immune system. Projects involve concepts and methods from equilibrium and non-equilibrium physics and are often based on experimental collaborations. For more details see www.thp.uni-koeln.de/~berg.
• The position includes a standard teaching load (in English or in German) of 2 SWS alongside research activities.

YOUR PROFILE

• Applicants should have a Master‘s in physics with excellent grades, a strong background in statistical physics, and a genuine interest in biology.

WE OFFER

• Broad research and training opportunities within the graduate school BCGS
• Close research group integration/supervision
• A diverse working environment with equal opportunities
• Support in balancing work and family life
• Extensive advanced training opportunities
• Occupational health management offers
• Flexible working time models
• Opportunity to work remotely

The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz - LGG NRW). We also expressly welcome applications from all suitable candidates regardless of their gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

The position is available form 1 October 2026 on a part-time basis (19,92 hours per week). The initial appointment will be for three years, funds for an extension are available. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications, the salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector.

For further inquiries, please contact Professor Dr Johannes Berg ([e-mail]) and take a look at our FAQs.