PhD position Theory of Turbulent Convection

MPI f. Dynamik u.Selbstorg.; Göttingen; Vor Ort; EUR 42.000 - 52.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

The Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization in Göttingen invites applications for a PhD position in the Theory of Turbulent Convection. You will join the ERC CoSMiC project, investigating multistability and control of turbulent flows using simulations, nonlinear dynamics, and flow optimization.

The role requires a Master’s degree in physics, mathematics, or engineering, strong programming skills, and a passion for independent research in fluid dynamics and turbulence.

Qualifikationen

• Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Strong interest in fluid dynamics, turbulence and nonlinear dynamics.
• Very good programming skills and ability to conduct independent research.

Aufgaben

• Join the ERC CoSMiC project on multistability and targeted control of turbulent flows.
• Perform direct numerical simulations and nonlinear dynamics analyses.
• Study thermal convection and related turbulent flow systems as model cases.

Kenntnisse

Programming skills

Fluid dynamics interest

Independent research drive

Ausbildung

Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or Engineering

Jobbeschreibung

PhD position

In the Max-Planck Research Group “Theory of Turbulent Convection” of the department “Fluid Physics, Pattern Formation and Biocomplexity” we seek to fill on 01.01.2027 a PhD position.

The Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization at Göttingen, Germany, is an international research institute. It provides an interdisciplinary, collaborative environment performing both experimental and theoretical fundamental scientific research and currently employs about 300 people.

Your responsibilities

We are looking for an excellent PhD candidate to join our research group within the ERC Advanced Grant project CoSMiC. CoSMiC investigates multistability and targeted control of turbulent flows. The central question is how different coexisting turbulent states can be identified, how transitions between them can be understood, and how desired flow states can be selected and stabilized using simple and physically interpretable control strategies.

The PhD project combines direct numerical simulations of turbulent flows, nonlinear dynamics, and modern approaches to flow control. Thermal convection and related turbulent flow systems will serve as key model systems.

Your profile

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• Strong interest in fluid dynamics, turbulence, and nonlinear dynamics
• Very good programming skills
• Strong motivation to pursue a PhD and conduct independent scientific research

Our offer

• The PhD position is limited to three years.
• The salary and working hours are in accordance with the funding guidelines of the Max Planck Society for junior scientists. The salary is 2/3 of E13 TVöD-Bund.
• Furthermore, we offer opportunities regarding work life balance as well as health promotion services.
• In close collaboration with the Georg August University, a structured PhD program is offered in the graduate program of the Physics Department, or in the graduate program on Physics of Biological and Complex Systems.

The Max-Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

Application details

Applications received before October 1st, 2026 will be given full consideration. Written applications will not be sent back.

Please contact Dr. Olga Shishkina (Email: [e-mail]) should you have further questions.

Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization
Dr. Olga Shishkina
Am Faßberg 17
D-37077 Göttingen