PhD positions | Statistical Physics and Active Matter

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 research

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.

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 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.

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 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.

Your application

Please apply via our application portal 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 deadline of 1st December 2026. While we may continue to receive applications until 1st April 2027, the positions will be filled as soon as suitable candidates are identified. Therefore, you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

For questions, please contact:

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

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