PhD positions | Statistical Physics and Active Matter

1000scholars; Göttingen; On-site; EUR 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization in Göttingen invites applications for multiple PhD positions in Statistical Physics and Active Matter. The PhD students will carry out theoretical and/or computational research under the supervision of Prof. Dr.

Ramin Golestanian, in a highly international, interdisciplinary setting. We seek ambitious early-career researchers with strong communication skills, a Master’s degree in physics or mathematics, and fluency in English.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree 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 scales.
• Ability and desire to work in an international team on inter-disciplinary research topics.
• Good command of English, which is the working language of the department. German is an asset but not required.

Responsibilities

• The PhD students (m/f/d) will engage in theoretical and/or computational research in Nonequilibrium Statistical Physics and Active Matter, under the supervision of Ramin Golestanian.

Education

Master’s degree in theoretical physics, applied mathematics or related disciplines

Job description

PhD positions | Statistical Physics and Active Matter

Young Researchers

Göttingen

Complex Systems

Job Code: MPIDS-W091

Job Offer from July 28, 2026

In the Department of Living Matter Physics (LMP) we seek to fill several PhD positions on Statistical Physics and Active Matter.

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 is headed by Ramin Golestanian and hosts several group leaders, postdoctoral researchers, students, and visitors.

The PhD students (m/f/d) will engage in theoretical and/or computational research in Nonequilibrium Statistical Physics and Active Matter, under the supervision of Ramin Golestanian. For more information concerning our current areas of research activity, visit our website.

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

• 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 scales;
• Ability and desire to work in an international team on inter-disciplinary research topics;
• Good command of English, which is the working language of the department. German is an asset but not required.

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 full-time; 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 a suitable working environment for everyone, including individuals with disabilities.

For questions, please contact:

Prof. Dr. Ramin Golestanian

Tel. [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization

Prof. Dr. Ramin Golestanian

Am Faßberg 17

37077 Göttingen

Germany