Summary
The University of Cologne is seeking highly motivated PhD candidates to work in an international research group led by Professor Dr. Johannes Berg. Embedded in the Bonn-Cologne Graduate School of Physics and Astronomy (BCGS) and the Collaborative Research Centre CRC 1310 (“Predicting Evolution”), this position offers comprehensive interdisciplinary training at the interface between statistical physics and quantitative biology.
PhD Position (f/m/x) in Statistical Physics / Quantitative Biology at the University of Cologne
Key Information Overview
| Parameter | Details |
| Designation | PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher (f/m/x) |
| Institution | University of Cologne (Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences) |
| Host Institute / Group | Institute for Biological Physics (Research Group of Prof. Dr. Johannes Berg) |
| Research Area | Statistical Physics, Quantitative Biology, Cancer Evolution, Immune System Modeling |
| Location | Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany |
| Working Hours | Part-time (19.92 hours/week, 50% TV-L E13) |
| Contract Duration | 3 years (with funds available for extension) |
| Remuneration / Pay Scale | TV-L Entgeltgruppe 13 (German Public Sector Pay Scale) |
| Start Date | 1 October 2026 |
| Reference Number | Wiss2608-15 |
| Last Date to Apply | 15 September 2026 |
Research Area
- Statistical Physics & Quantitative Biology: Cancer evolution, drug resistance dynamics, and statistical modeling of the immune system.
- Projects leverage concepts and methods from equilibrium and non-equilibrium physics, frequently working in synergy with experimental collaborators.
Location
- Institute for Biological Physics, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Academic Degree: A Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Physics with excellent academic grades.
- Core Competencies: Strong background in statistical physics.
- Interdisciplinary Interest: A genuine interest in quantitative biology and biophysics.
- Language & Teaching: Ability to handle a standard teaching load of 2 SWS (semester credit hours) in either English or German alongside research activities.
Scholarship & Position Description
The doctoral position provides a fully integrated academic setting within the German TV-L E13 pay scale, offering:
- Interdisciplinary graduate-level coursework and training via the BCGS (Bonn-Cologne Graduate School) and the CRC 1310.
- Flexible working time models and remote work opportunities.
- Support for work-life balance and comprehensive occupational health management.
- A supportive, diverse, and equal-opportunity research environment.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the official University of Cologne job portal without a photograph:
- Online Application: Visit the University of Cologne Job Portal using the reference number
Wiss2608-15. - Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Publication list (if applicable)
- Research statement / Statement of purpose
- Proof of academic qualifications/transcripts
- Letters of Recommendation: One letter of recommendation must be sent directly by your referee/recommender via email to Prof. Dr. Johannes Berg at
bergj@uni-koeln.de.
Last Date for Apply
- 15 September 2026
