Summary
The newly established research group in the Department of Physics at Durham University is inviting applications from motivated PhD students and Postdoctoral Researchers interested in interdisciplinary research spanning statistical physics, biophysics, and soft matter. The group investigates how living systems process information through the physics of soft matter, aiming to uncover the mechanisms behind the emergence of intelligence in biological systems.
Fully Funded PhD & Postdoctoral Opportunities in Statistical Physics, Biophysics and Soft Matter at Durham University, UK
A fully funded PhD position is available for UK home students, while international applicants are encouraged to apply for competitive funding with support from the research group. Postdoctoral candidates are also welcome, with mentorship provided for prestigious external fellowship applications.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | PhD Student & Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Institution | Durham University |
| Department | Department of Physics |
| Research Group | Newly Established Research Group |
| Research Area | Statistical Physics, Biophysics, Soft Matter, Information Processing in Living Systems |
| Location | Durham, United Kingdom |
| Funding | Fully Funded PhD (UK Home Students); Fellowship Support for International PhD & Postdocs |
| Application Mode | Email Application |
| Last Date | Open Until Filled |
Designation
- PhD Student (Fully Funded for UK Home Students)
- Postdoctoral Researcher (Externally Funded Fellowships Supported)
Research Area
The research group focuses on interdisciplinary topics including:
- Statistical Physics
- Biophysics
- Soft Matter Physics
- Information Processing in Living Systems
- Mechanical and Chemical Coupling
- Nonequilibrium Physics
- Emergence of Intelligence in Soft Matter
- Multiscale Dynamics of Biological Systems
Location
Department of Physics
Durham University
Durham, United Kingdom
Eligibility/Qualification
For PhD Applicants
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Physics or a closely related discipline.
- Strong background in statistical physics, soft matter, biophysics, or related fields.
- UK home students are eligible for the fully funded PhD position.
- International applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive support in preparing applications for competitive funding opportunities.
For Postdoctoral Applicants
- PhD in Physics, Biophysics, Soft Matter, or a related field.
- Strong research record relevant to the group’s research interests.
- Interest in applying for externally funded fellowships.
Job Description
Successful candidates will conduct cutting-edge research at the intersection of physics and biology, focusing on:
- Understanding how living systems process information through physical mechanisms.
- Investigating noisy, coupled mechanical and chemical processes across multiple timescales.
- Developing theoretical and computational models in statistical and soft matter physics.
- Exploring the emergence of intelligence in biological and soft matter systems.
- Collaborating within an interdisciplinary research environment.
- Publishing research findings in leading international journals.
Postdoctoral researchers will also receive mentorship and institutional support for fellowship applications, including:
- Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowships (MSCA PF)
- EPSRC Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Royal Society Newton International Fellowship
- Other prestigious international funding schemes
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send the following by email:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A brief description of your research interests
Email: avishek.das@durham.ac.uk
Early expressions of interest are encouraged.
Last Date for Apply
Open Until Filled
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled. Early application is highly recommended.
