3 PhD positions

The Chair of Mathematics in Life Sciences at the Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen- Nürnberg (FAU) and at the Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin in Erlangen (Germany) is looking for outstanding candidates to fill

Our Chair of Mathematics in Life Sciences (https://www.mathlife.nat.fau.de/) at the Friedrich-Alexander-Universitaet Erlangen-Nuernberg (FAU) develops and applies methods of statistical physics to understand complex biological phenomena. As a part of the recently founded interdisciplinary Max-Planck-Zentrum fuer Physik und Medizin (https://www.mpzpm.de/) we are contributing to the exciting research at the interface of physics, biology and medicine.

We are currently looking for excellent candidates to join the following projects as PhD:

Cell-matrix interactions in neuronal development

As a part of the truly interdisciplinary Collaborative Research Center “Exploring brain mechanics” (EBM: https://www.crc1540-ebm.research.fau.eu/) we investigate how the biophysical interactions of neurons and the surrounding extracellular matrix affect brain development and function. We focus on the theoretical models addressing this phenomenon during neuronal network formation and neuronal organoid growth.

Biophysics of helminth-host interactions

A project within the Research Training Group “Immunomicrotope” (https://www.immunomicrotope.de/) explores how helminth parasites use mechanical forces to make their way through the host tissues. Our aim is to build models that can take into account the fitness of the parasite and the effects of the immune response of the infected host.

Novel mechanisms of autoinflammation and autoimmunity

Systemic diseases such as psoriasis often link innate and adaptive immune systems as well as the processes of inflammation and autoimmunity. In this project, we aim to investigate how the immune response can be confused when naturally present immunomodulating molecules are repurposed by the process of proteolytic cleavage. This project is a part of the IMPRS-PM program (https://mpzpm.mpg.de/study-work-or-visit/graduate-programs/physics-and-medicine/)

Notwendige Qualifikationen:

We are looking for excellent candidates with interest in the areas of theoretical, statistical, mathematical and bio-physics, or applied mathematics and computer science with strong interest in biology and who enjoy interdisciplinary work.

Befristetes Forschungsvorhaben

To apply: Send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications via e-mail as a single PDF file. Please also arrange for at least two reference letters. Application documents, recommendation letters should be sent to Prof. Vasily Zaburdaev (vasily.zaburdaev@fau.de). Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.

FAU is a member of “The Family in Higher Education Institutions” best practice club and also aims to increase the number of women in scientific positions. Female candidates are therefore particularly encouraged to apply. In case of equal qualifications, candidates with disabilities will take precedence.