Summary
The University of Cologne, Germany, is inviting applications for a PhD position in Statistical Physics/Quantitative Biology within the Institute for Biological Physics and the research group of Professor Dr. Johannes Berg. The position offers interdisciplinary doctoral research at the interface of statistical physics and quantitative biology, with opportunities to work on cancer evolution, resistance dynamics, and statistical modelling of the immune system.
The successful candidate will join an international research environment with access to graduate-level courses, training opportunities, and interdisciplinary research through the BCGS Graduate School and CRC1310 Predicting Evolution.
PhD Position (f/m/x) in Statistical Physics / Quantitative Biology
Designation
PhD Researcher / Doctoral Researcher (f/m/x)
- Institution: University of Cologne
- Faculty: Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
- Institute: Institute for Biological Physics
- Research Group: Professor Berg
- Position: Part-time, 19.92 hours/week
- Start Date: 1 October 2026
- Duration: Initially 3 years
- Salary: Remuneration Group 13 TV-L, subject to applicable requirements and qualifications
- Reference Number: Wiss2608-15
Research Area
- Statistical Physics
- Quantitative Biology
- Cancer Evolution
- Resistance Dynamics
- Statistical Modelling of the Immune System
- Equilibrium and Non-equilibrium Physics
- Evolutionary Dynamics
- Mathematical/Statistical Modelling
- Physics-Biology Interdisciplinary Research
Location
University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants should:
- Hold a Master’s degree in Physics with excellent grades.
- Have a strong background in statistical physics.
- Demonstrate a genuine interest in biology and interdisciplinary research.
- Be highly motivated to work in an international research team.
- Have an interest in applying concepts and methods from physics to biological problems.
Job Description
The selected candidate will undertake doctoral research at the interface of statistical physics and quantitative biology.
Depending on the candidate’s interests and academic background, research projects may focus on:
- Cancer evolution
- Resistance dynamics
- Statistical modelling of the immune system
- Evolutionary dynamics
- Equilibrium and non-equilibrium physical processes
- Theoretical and statistical modelling in biological systems
Research projects may also involve experimental collaborations.
In addition to research activities, the position includes a standard teaching load of 2 SWS, which may be conducted in English or German.
The doctoral researcher will have access to:
- Broad research and training opportunities through the BCGS Graduate School
- Close supervision and integration within the research group
- Advanced training opportunities
- Flexible working-time models
- Remote-work opportunities
- Occupational health management
- A diverse and inclusive working environment
- Support for balancing work and family life
How to Apply
Applicants should apply online through the University of Cologne Job Portal.
Required application documents include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of required qualifications
- Publication list, if applicable
- Research statement
- One letter of recommendation
The letter of recommendation should be sent directly by the recommender to:
Professor Dr. Johannes Berg
Email: bergj@uni-koeln.de
Applications should be submitted without a photograph.
Application Portal: https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de
Reference Number: Wiss2608-15
Last Date for Apply
15 September 2026
Contact
Professor Dr. Johannes Berg
Institute for Biological Physics
University of Cologne
Email: bergj@uni-koeln.de
The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity and welcomes applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic or social origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation, or identity.
