PhD student (f/m/d) | Biochemistry of Signal Dynamics

 

The Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences in Göttingen, Germany, is a leading international research institute of exceptional scientific breadth. With more than 40 research groups and about 1,000 employees from over 50 nations, it is the largest institute of the Max Planck Society.

The research group Biochemistry of Signal Dynamics (Dr. Alex Faesen) invites applications for a position as 

PhD Student (f/m/d)

Our laboratory aims to reconstitute the initiation of autophagy using purified proteins. Autophagy is a process of regulated degradation that has been proven to play a wide range of roles in cellular housekeeping, including removal of damaged or unneeded organelles, intracellular pathogens, and protein aggregates. It is an essential biological pathway that promotes organismal health, longevity and helps combat cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

Building on exciting recent data, this project focuses on the reconstitution and structural-functional characterization of newly identified and purified macromolecular super-complexes. This project combines a large variety of biochemical and cell biological techniques with X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy, and will be tailored to the particular interests of the successful candidate.

Candidates should hold/soon expect a MSc or equivalent degree in a relevant area of the life sciences and have initial experience in protein biochemistry or structural biology. Candidates should be passionate about science, curiosity-driven, self-motivated, and eager to work in an international and multi-disciplinary team. Furthermore, the PhD student will collaborate with other national and international research groups. PhD students are encouraged to attend international workshops and meetings once a year.

We offer

• competitive research in an inspiring, world-class environment
• professional training, networking and career-development opportunities; free language courses
• on-site health management: free fitness and yoga room, sports groups, beach volleyball league, and courses for a "moving lunch break”
• a wide range of opportunities to balance work and family life, including an on-campus kindergarten and vacation care
• spacious on-site cafeteria with diverse meals; espresso bar
• initiatives for sustainability and a green environment with an on-site biotope

About us

Based at one of Germany’s premier research campuses, our research group has access to leading- edge infrastructure in all areas of cell and structural biology, including cryo-EM. We are an international team, supported by the Max Planck Society and the German Research Foundation. Our working language is English; knowledge of German is not required.

The Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences places strong emphasis on interdisciplinary work and has an outstanding scientific record. It is the largest institute of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science and conducts basic research in the public interest. Research in the Max Planck Society is characterised by innovative projects and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The historic city of Göttingen, located in the center of Germany, offers great outdoor and cultural opportunities, a vibrant student scene, and an impressive scientific heritage.

Position details

The positions should be filled as soon as possible; the exact start date is flexible. PhD students will be funded for three years (with a possibility of extension) and have the opportunity to enroll in one of several PhD programs in collaboration with the University of Göttingen. Payment and benefits are based on the TVöD (wage agreement for public service personal) guidelines.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Application

Please submit your application including a cover letter (explaining background and motivation), CV, academic transcripts, publication list, and the contact addresses of two references preferably as a single PDF file to the email address below. Review of applications will begin immediately.

ausschreibung21-23@mpinat.mpg.de

Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences
Research Group „Biochemistry of Signal Dynamics“
Dr. Alex Faesen
Am Fassberg 11
37077 Göttingen
Germany

E-Mail: alex.faesen@mpinat.mpg.de
Twitter: @FaesenLab

PhD positions (m/f/d) | International Max Planck Research School for Living Matter

 

PhD positions (m/f/d) at the International Max Planck Research School for Living Matter, Dortmund, Germany

Application Deadline: April 10th 2023

The International Max Planck Research School for Living Matter: from molecules to dynamics (IMPRS-LM) is looking for talented and motivated PhD candidates (m/f/d) of all nationalities to carry out novel projects in the following research areas:

Biochemistry • Biophysics • Cancer Biology • Cell Biology • Chemical Biology • Drug Discovery • Molecular Biology • Network Biology • Stem Cell Biology • Structural Biology • Synthetic Biology • Systems Biology

The IMPRS-LM is a joint PhD program between the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology (MPI-MP), the Technical University (TU) Dortmund, the Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) and the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE), and it is located in the Ruhr Metropolitan Area, a vibrant, open and multicultural region in Germany.

Our goal is to provide the best environment for young and talented scientists to pursue their graduate studies and develop into independent and creative researchers. Successful applicants will join one of the many independent research groups affiliated to the program and, while focusing on one project, will be exposed to a broad field of scientific questions in the area of Life Science.

A key feature of modern Life Science is the absence of strict boundaries between the traditional disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. We teach our students the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and give them the tools necessary to navigate the complex landscape of modern Life Science.

We offer

• fully-funded PhD positions (competitive salaries with social benefits)
• dedicated mentors to guide and promote young scientists
• an international and exciting working atmosphere
• state-of-the-art research facilities
• an English-speaking training program that includes lectures, advanced scientific workshops, transferable skill courses and career development activities

Interested candidates should hold (or expect to hold prior to the start of their PhD) a M.Sc. (or an equivalent degree) in Biology, Biochemistry, Life Science, (Bio-)Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, Computer Science or related fields.

More information about the program and the application process.

The Max Planck Society strives to ensure a workplace that embraces diversity and that provides equal opportunities to all employees, irrespective of gender, nationality, disabilities, religious or sexual orientation. Applicants from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged. The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

Postdoctoral Researchers and PhD Students (m/f/d)

 

The research group of Dr. Robert Ohlendorf is seeking Postdoctoral Researchers and PhD Students (m/f/d) to join our growing team at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics in Tübingen, Germany. Our lab combines bioengineering and in vivo imaging to understand molecular signaling that underlies mammalian brain function. The Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics conducts research into the elucidation of cognitive processes in experimental, theoretical and methodological areas and is one of the Max Planck Institutes of the Max Planck Society.

Joining us, you will have the opportunity to develop protein-based and genetic tools for measuring and controlling molecular processes and apply them to study their interplay on a brain-wide level in real-time using optical, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. Our interdisciplinary approach encourages researchers with different backgrounds to collaborate and develop their skills to bridge molecular, cellular and organismal levels.

Relevant work experience includes molecular biology, protein engineering, cell culture, structural biology, optogenetics, electrophysiology, functional imaging (especially fMRI), in vivo experiments, rodent handling and surgery and programing skills (e.g. Matlab, Python). Our mission is to build a supportive and inclusive environment and we highly value scientific curiosity and motivation. Ideal candidates also have a strong track record of prior research accomplishments.

The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications from severely disabled people are expressly encouraged. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equity and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for 2-3 references to robert.ohlendorf@tuebingen.mpg.de.

PhD Positions (m/f/d) | Physical Chemistry

 

The International Max Planck Research School for Elementary Processes in Physical Chemistry  (IMPRS-EPPC) at the Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society offers five PhD Positions (m/f/d) in Physical Chemistry.

The Fritz Haber Institute (FHI) in Berlin-Dahlem is one of the oldest and renowned research institutes within the Max Planck Society (MPG), Germany's most successful scientific organization for fundamental research. At the FHI, researchers from all over the world are engaged in basic research in the field of chemical physics at interfaces and surfaces, catalysis research and molecular physics.

The newly established graduate school IMPRS-EPPC in Berlin is offering 5 PhD positions for research projects to be carried out with any of the participating research groups at the FHI, the Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Technische Universität Berlin, and Universität Potsdam. The positions are linked to membership in the IMPRS-EPPC, and will be co-funded between the IMPRS-EPPC and the respective research groups.

The IMPRS-EPPC is a graduate school funded by the MPG and hosted at the FHI in Berlin. The research within the School focuses on understanding the elementary process steps in physical chemistry problems, ultimately leading to functionality, ranging from single molecules chemistry on surfaces or in the gas phase to ultrafast surface dynamics and complex catalyst performance. All departments of the FHI as well as expert groups from physics and chemistry of all Berlin and Potsdam universities channel their respective efforts under the roof of the IMPRS-EPPC.

Research Projects

Candidates should propose a specific research project in Physical Chemistry and related fields, to be carried out with any of the participating research groups.

Your application

Applications will be accepted only through the Online Application form. The application deadline is Apr. 30 2023. Highly motivated applicants should hold an excellent Master’s degree or equivalent in physics, chemistry, material science or related fields. Details of the application requirements.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

Funding

The position is initially limited to three years (extension possible) with a starting salary corresponding to a 66,67% TVöD/E13, Level 1, position. The positions will be co-funded between the IMPRS-EPPC (1st year) and the respective research group (remainder of the contract).

For more information please visit the FHI institute website at or contact us:

IMPRS-EPPC, Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft
Faradayweg 4-6
14195 Berlin
Germany

e-mail: imprs@fritz-haber-institut.de
Phone: +49 30 8413-5102

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase gender diversity in research and therefore explicitly encourages women and non-binary people to apply.

Master Student / Internship (m/f/d) | Ionic Liquids / Polymers

 

The Department of Colloid Chemistry (Markus Antonietti) at the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces in Potsdam, Germany invites applications from outstanding young students for a Master Student / Internship (m/f/d).

We are looking for a highly motivated master student in the field of ionic liquids / polymers. This master project is institute-industry collaboration project (one of leading company in chemical industry). The purpose of this research is to look into the compatibility, new functionalities, and fundamental mechanisms (e. g., electrochemistry, surface/interface, ionic conductivity) of sustainable ionic electrolytes incorporated into polymer materials.

The candidate should have a B.Sc. degree in Chemistry or closely related fields, with an outstanding profile, a strong background, and interests in

• Ionic liquids / electrolytes
• Electrochemical characterization
• Physico-chemical characterization

To submit your candidature please send an email to: roza.bouchal@mpikg.mpg.de, with the subject ILs-MSc – [Name, Surname], with attached PDF version of your CV, an updated transcript of record and your bachelor certificate.

Please send us your application in English until April 30, 2023.

The accepted candidate will join the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Colloid Chemistry Department, in the group of Advanced electrolytes for sustainable batteries led by Dr. Roza Bouchal.

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The Max-Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

PhD positions (m/f/d) | Ape and Human Evolution

 

The aim of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology (MPI EVA) in Leipzig/Germany is to investigate the evolutionary history of humankind with the help of comparative analyses of genes, morphology, cultures, cognitive abilities, languages and social systems of past and present human populations as well as those of primates closely related to human beings. The collaboration of the various departments – representing the natural, social, and human sciences – at one institute leads to new insights into history, variety, and abilities of the human species. The institute unites scientists with various research interests who are concerned with human evolution seen also from an interdisciplinary perspective. Great attention is paid to cooperation between the departments in the institute.

The focus of the new department of Human Origins (Director: Dr. Tracy Kivell) is on early hominin and ape evolution and the reconstruction of behavior in the past using high-resolution imaging, experimental biomechanics and archaeology, and the study of living primates (including humans).

The department is currently seeking qualified applicants (m/f/d) for PhD positions on topics related to ape and human evolution.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for internationally trained, enthusiastic applicants with a strong motivation to pursue a Ph.D., be fluent in written and spoken English (which is the working-language of the institute), an excellent academic performance and a completed Master`s degree (including M.Sc. thesis) in biological anthropology, archaeology, ecology and evolution, biology, neurobiology, ethology, or a related topic.

Applicants should have previous experience in the following topics and/or methods who are specifically interested in:

• Postcranial functional morphology from internal bone structure (i.e. using microCT data).
• Brain or cranial evolution.
• Field-based research on wild primate behavior, particularly locomotion, manipulation and/or tool diversity.
• The origins of tool production: empirical, experimental and/or collections-based approaches to the production of the earliest stone tools.

What do we offer?

• Highly integrative projects that require a willingness to embrace multiple disciplines and close collaborations with other researchers with different backgrounds.
• State-of-the-art equipment.
• An excellent research environment.
• A structured training program.
• German language courses are offered (German language skills are not required)
• Successful candidates will obtain a 3-year Ph.D. position corresponding to TVöD Bund (Collective Wage Agreement for the Public Service): The doctoral funding contracts combine research in scientific freedom with social security. They allow doctoral researchers to devote themselves independently to their scientific work without any constraints.
• The agreed working time currently amounts to 39 hours per week.
• Consumables and equipment required for the project will be covered by the hosting department.
• Selected Ph.D. students would ideally start at the beginning of September 2023 (and a Master’s degree must be completed by this date).
• The candidates will be enrolled within the International Max Planck Research School “The Leipzig School of Human Origins” (IMPRS-LSHO).

You want to apply?

Interested applicants should apply only via our online recruiting system.

For questions (no applications), please write to Dr. Tracy Kivell, Director of Dept. of Human Origins at origins_office@eva.mpg.de

Applications should include:

• Cover letter (max. 2 pages), outlining your previous research experience, your specific area(s) of research interest, and ideas for a PhD project.
• Curriculum vitae with the names and contact information of at least two referees.
• Scientific certificates (B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees)

All electronic applications should be submitted by April 30th, 2023.

The Department of Human Origins is committed to creating a diverse, equal, and inclusive work environment. The Max Planck Society is committed to equal opportunities and to employing individuals with disabilities and explicitly encourages them to apply. Additionally, the Max Planck Society wishes to increase the proportion of women in areas in which they are underrepresented; women are explicitly encouraged to apply. Finally, we wish to encourage researchers from other underrepresented groups and/or countries to apply.

Multiple PhD and Postdoctoral positions (m/f/d) | Microbiota-Root-Shoot Axis

 

The Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research (MPIPZ) in Cologne, Germany invites applications for several ERC-funded positions in the field of microbiology, molecular plant-microbiota interactions, functional ecology and computational biology. The positions are available in the Multitrophic Plant-Microbe Interactions group headed by Dr. Stéphane Hacquard for an initial period of three years, with the possibility of extension.

Background / Objectives

The Multitrophic Plant-Microbe Interactions group aims at understanding the fundamental mechanisms that underlie the structure and the functions of multi-kingdom microbial consortia colonizing plant roots (see group website). The ERC-funded project MICROBIOSIS will focus on the fascinating, yet overlooked circuits that connect root microbiota composition belowground with aboveground leaf development (see project). The objective is to identify conserved strategies used by distantly related plant species for long-distance communication with root microbes and to design synthetic microbial communities that promote resistance to multiple aboveground stresses. The project will involve the use of tractable microbial communities, cutting-edge metabolome, microbiome and grafting techniques, as well as genetic engineering methods and advanced gnotobiotic plant growth systems to mechanistically understand and engineer these circuits.

Skills required

The ideal candidates will have the ability to work at the interface between multiple research fields and will have expertise in one or more of the following: plant/microbial genetics, large-scale multi-omics, advanced statistical genetics, root or microbial metabolic engineering, grafting, root-shoot functional interplay, synthetic microbial communities and ecosystem engineering. Having inter-disciplinary proficiency among molecular biology, ecology, and bioinformatics is advantageous. Very good organizational and communication skills (i.e., English) are essential.

Renumeration

The positions must be filled this year. Selected candidates will be invited for interview. Salary and working hours are in accordance with the funding guidelines of the Max Planck Society for junior scientists.

Working hours are fulltime; Payment and benefits are according to German TVöD-Bund.

Your application

Your application must include a letter (2 pages max) stating why you are interested to join the MICROBIOSIS research team, your CV, a list of publications or similar achievements, and names of three referees and should be send as a single pdf document through the online system, by latest May 9th, 2023.

For further information on this position please feel free to contact Dr. Stéphane Hacquard.

Student Research Assistant (m/f/d) | Artificial muscle fabrication

 How do artificial muscles change the conventional definition of robots? The MPI-IS Robotic Materials Department led by Prof. Christoph Keplinger, is working on artificial muscles, that could be implemented in robotic prototypes. We would like to design and fabricate artificial muscles, and integrate them into robots and exoskeleton suits, which are fundamental for the future of robotics.

Your profile

We are looking for talented students who are pursuing a Master of Science in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, material science, electrical engineering, physics or related fields to support our research as student assistants, and to shape the future of robotics with us.

Applicants should

• be highly motivated,
• be pursuing a master’s degree,
• be currently enrolled in a German university,
• have strong academic performance in relevant bachelor’s and master’s courses,
• want to work in an international and interdisciplinary research group,
• have good oral and written communication skills in English,
• and be able to work on site at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems in Stuttgart, Germany.

We are especially interested in applicants who have

• experience in engineering drawing (2D CAD) and designing experiments
• an interest and/or experience in
  • rapid prototyping techniques (3D CAD, CNC, laser cutter, 3D printer, screen printing etc.),
  • handicraft,
  • process optimization.

Your tasks

The student assistant position is paid hourly and will allow the student to gain hands-on experience with hardware systems, as well as to be exposed to ongoing robotics research. The position and tasks are subject to discussion with the interested candidates. Selected candidates can start working as soon as they are hired.

Possible tasks include:

• Fabricating film based soft actuators
• Optimizing the fabrication processes
• Testing the actuators and evaluate their performances
• Optimizing designs of the actuators

We offer

Master students holding a Bachelor’s degree will be paid 13,03€ per hour, maximum 83 hours per month. The job will start as soon as possible. An initial contract will be offered for three months.

We offer a modernly equipped workplace, a strongly international working environment, as well as the affiliation to a daycare center for young children.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

Contact and application

Please upload your application including a resumé in English or German and a cover letter in English to our application system.

The position will be open until filled.

For further questions please contact Toshihiko Fukushima via fukushima@is.mpg.de.

Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) | Economics, sociology, or a related discipline

 

The Independent Research Group ‘Space, Contexts, and Crime’ at the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Crime, Security and Law in Freiburg i. Br. (Germany) is looking for a Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) in economics, sociology, or a related discipline.

The Max Planck Institute for the Study of Crime, Security and Law is a leading European center for research in criminology, public security matters, and criminal law and is part of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science – one of the world’s most distinguished research organizations. The Independent Research Group ‘Space, Contexts, and Crime’ lead by Prof. Dietrich Oberwittler is affiliated with the Department of Criminology which offers a highly interdisciplinary research environment that includes psychologists, sociologists, mathematicians, criminologists, and computer scientists. It pushes the boundaries of crime research through the application of innovative methods, theory development, and real-world application.

The Institute is located in Freiburg i. Br., a dynamic and green university city with a 900-year history, an international atmosphere, and many recreational opportunities. Freiburg ranks third on Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2022” list of the top ten city destinations.

Objectives

The successful applicant will work in the project “The Consequences of the Covid-19 Pandemic for Crime in Southwest Germany” and will analyze changes in recorded crime during the pandemic in association with fine-grained anonymized mobility data and a host of spatial socio-demographic and infrastructural data, applying time series analysis and spatiotemporal modeling at different geographic levels. Most of the data preparation is completed, and the appointee will concentrate on pursuing advanced spatial and time series analyses, participate in the presentation and publication of novel findings, all in close collaboration with the interdisciplinary project team and affiliated scholars. The doctoral supervision will be provided jointly with the Department of Economics and Behavioral Sciences (Prof. Dirk Neumann, Information Systems Research) at the University of Freiburg.

Your profile

We are looking for candidates with a Master’s or equivalent degree in economics, social sciences, mathematics, or related subjects. The candidates should have a strong background in econometric/quantitative research methods, advanced knowledge of STATA or R, ideally experience in time series and/or spatial analysis, and interest in crime research. Excellent English language skills are essential.

Our offer

Our Institute offers excellent conditions for doctoral studies, including exceptional specialist libraries and databases, excellent workspaces and computing facilities, and comprehensive administrative and academic support. Collaboration with other doctoral researchers, postdocs, and international partners at the Institute is a key element of our research. Additionally, there are many opportunities for our researchers to participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences.

The doctoral position is available from July 2023 or later and is limited to three years (with the possibility of renewal for two further periods of six months each in exceptional circumstances). It is a fully funded research position with no teaching obligations. The position is full-time (currently 39 hours/week). Remuneration and social benefits are based on the German Civil Service Collective Agreement (TVöD Bund), pay category 13, 65% of full-time employment. The salary includes all mandatory social insurance contributions for healthcare, long-term care, unemployment, and retirement. The workplace is Freiburg i. Br. (Germany).

We are committed to ensuring a positive work-life balance and offer flexible work options, including remote work, as well as generous opportunities for personal and professional development, including free in-house German language courses.

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and supports diversity in the workplace. Applications from disabled persons are welcome. We also aim to increase the percentage of female staff in fields in which they are underrepresented and therefore expressly encourage women to apply. Applications are particularly welcome from persons with backgrounds that have so far been underrepresented in science and research with regard to gender, age, professional and cultural background, family situation, sexual orientation, and nationality.

Your application

To apply, please submit a letter of interest and an outline of your previous experience, a CV, academic transcripts, and a writing sample, e.g., your Master’s thesis, via our online application portal.

For further information, please contact Professor Dietrich Oberwittler d.oberwittler@csl.mpg.de.

The deadline for application is 30 April, 2023.

PhD Studentship (m/f/d) | Social Statistics | University of Manchester – Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research

 We are pleased to invite applications to a 3.5-year University of Manchester doctoral studentship in Social Statistics. The studentship is jointly funded by the Social Statistics Department, University of Manchester, UK, and the Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research (MPIDR), Germany, one of the world-leading research centres in population sciences. The studentship will be part of the International Max Planck Research School for Population, Health and Data Science (IMPRS-PHDS).

In many countries, migration has become a key driver of population change. However, traditional data on migration often lack precision, are biased or are reported with large delays. Digital traces and big data often contain information on human mobility but new methods are required to use and integrate these new forms of data with data derived from traditional sources. This is an excellent opportunity for highly-motivated and qualified candidates to work with an international team on developing cutting-edge novel statistical and computational methods in estimating and forecasting human migration with the use of traditional and new forms of data. 

Your profile

Eligibility Criteria:

a) Academic:
Applicants must have minimum qualifications of a good Upper Second-Class honours Bachelor's degree with a minimum grade average of 65% (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline, and an excellent Master's degree at Merit level in a relevant discipline with a minimum grade average of 65% in taught modules and a minimum mark of 65% in the dissertation/research element, no mark below 55%.
Due to variations in the grading structures of international institutions, higher results may be required than stated here. 

b) English language:
Applicants whose first language is not English require one of the following:

• IELTS test minimum scores - 7 overall, 7 writing, 6.5 other sections
• TOEFL (internet-based) test minimum scores - 103 overall, 28 writing, 25 other sections
• Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic/Academic UKVI) minimum scores - 76 overall, 76 writing, 70 other sections

Our offer

This is a Split-Site Studentship and the successful candidate will spend the first 21 months at the Social Statistics Department, University of Manchester. They will be working in a vibrant community of PhD students in Social Statistics, Social Data Analytics and Biosocial Research. They will participate in research activities of the Department, such as seminars and research away-days, and will have an opportunity to teach as a Graduate Teaching Assistants. The remaining 21 months of the studentship will be spent at the MPIDR in the Department of Digital and Computational Demography.
The studentship will commence September 2023 and will cover tuition fees for the full 3.5 years of study. 

During the period in Germany, the PhD student will be paid according to the MPIDR rules and regulations. This includes:

1. A contract currently amounting to a gross salary of about €34,295 per year, including a Christmas bonus (Weihnachtsgeld); and
2. Financial support for travel, research training, and data acquisition.

During the period in the UK, the University of Manchester–Max Planck PhD studentship will cover:

1. A maintenance grant of £17,668 per year (in the 2022/23 academic year, subject to increase annually according to the ESRC rules and regulations);
2. A research training support grant (RTSG) of £750 per year.

It is expected that the PhD student will prepare a thesis as a collection of research articles according to the postgraduate research policies of the University of Manchester. 

Your application

The application deadline will be Midnight (GMT) on 14 May 2023. All supporting documents must be received by the deadline and sent as a zip file to HUMS.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk, using ‘PhD Social Statistics Studentship - Arkadiusz Wisniowski’ as the email subject.

The application must include:

• Full Academic CV
• Academic Transcripts for both the undergraduate and postgraduate studies, an interim transcript if still completing the qualification
• A 1,000-word proposal fitting into the studentship’s focus on developing cutting-edge novel statistical and computational methods in estimating and forecasting human migration with the use of traditional and new forms of data
• Supporting statement of a maximum of a 500-word statement outlining your motivation and qualifications
• Names and contact details of two academic referees who can comment on your suitability for PhD study and to undertake the advertised research.

For informal enquiries please contact Arkadiusz Wisniowski a.wisniowski@manchester.ac.uk, Emilio Zagheni zagheni@demogr.mpg.de, or Kingsley Purdam (Kingsley.Purdam@manchester.ac.uk).

Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of the University of Manchester and the Max Planck Society and are at the heart of all of our activities. As equal opportunities institutions, we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

PhD DAAD scholarship (m/f/d) | Electrochemical reduction of iron oxides by first-principles methods

 The International Max Planck Research School for Sustainable Metallurgy offers a DAAD PhD scholarship (m/f/d) to study the electrochemical reduction of iron oxides by first-principles methods in full time for four years at the Faculty of Chemistry, Theoretical Inorganic Chemistry of the University Duisburg-Essen, Germany.

Project

The working group Theoretical Inorganic Chemistry, headed by Prof. Dr. Kai S. Exner, deals with the theoretical description of electrified solid/liquid interfaces for electrochemical applications. The current position aims to comprehend the elementary reaction steps of the reduction of iron oxides in an electrochemical environment. The successful PhD candidate is co-supervised by Prof. Dr. Rossitza Pentcheva (Faculty of Physics, University Duisburg-Essen).

Density functional theory (DFT) for surface and adsorbate calculations will be used throughout the PhD project to model various iron oxides. Both canonical and grand canonical approaches are applied to describe the elementary reaction steps leading to iron oxide degradation in an electrochemical environment. Using descriptor-based analysis, precursors and limiting steps for the degradation of iron oxide are identified, and the identified precursor species are exerted to (ab initio) molecular dynamics simulations for further analyses of the solid/liquid interface. The obtained insights are compared to the thermal reduction of iron oxide, which is studied in the framework of the IMPRS SusMet in the Pentcheva group. Upon graduation, the successful PhD candidate should have made an important contribution to the atomic scale understanding of iron oxide reduction by means of electrolysis.

The International Max Planck Research School for Sustainable Metallurgy (IMPRS SusMet) is a structured, three-year doctoral program, conducted entirely in English, that takes an intensive interdisciplinary approach and brings together scientists from across the globe in the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan region of Germany. Partner institutes are

• Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung, Düsseldorf
• Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung, Mülheim/Ruhr
• Ruhr-Universität Bochum
• Universität Duisburg-Essen

Metallurgy has provided humankind since more than five millennia with materials, tools and the associated progress. It is not only a huge engineering success story, but has also become the biggest single industrial environmental burden of our generation. Disruptive innovations are required for alternative reduction processes that convert mineral ores into metals without today’s carbon based methods that release huge amounts of CO2. SusMet focuses on the exploration of carbon-free sustainable metallurgy, employing hydrogen as reducing agent, direct electroreduction (electrolysis) and plasma synthesis.

What we offer

• Cutting-edge research in a dynamic work environment
• Well-structured curriculum and close supervision of the PhD projects including regular status meetings
• An international and open-minded community with outstanding opportunities for collaboration

Your profile

• Excellent master’s degree in materials science, physics, engineering or chemistry
• Very good English skills
• In addition, knowledge in the application of electronic structure calculations (density functional theory, e. g., VASP, WIEN2k, CP2K or SeqQuest) are expected. Knowledge in the field of (theoretical) electrochemistry is not required but will be considered positively in the application process.

Required documents

• Motivation letter
• CV
• Bachelor and Master degree certificates and transcript of records
• Certificate of very good English knowledge (IELTS, TOEFL, or similar)
• A recommendation letter from one of your university professors using the DAAD form
  To be sent by the professor to susmet@mpie.de

A Scholarship is provided in the framework of the Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). After nomination by IMPRS SusMet the successful candidates therefore have to formally apply to DAAD.

Application deadline: 30. April 2023
Starting date: September till December 2023
Please apply online.
We don't accept applications via post or e-mail.

We are committed to employing more handicapped individuals and especially encourage them to apply. The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Contact:
Elke Lorenz
susmet@mpie.de

Postdoc or Ph.D. position (m/f/d) | Efficient data-driven Modeling using Koopman Operators

 

The Max Planck Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems, research group Data-driven Modeling of Complex Physical Systems (DMP), invites applications for a Postdoc or Ph.D. position (m/f/d) on the topic of “Efficient data-driven Modeling using Koopman Operators”.

Computer simulations of large-scale dynamical systems, typically modeled by ordinary or partial differential equations, have become invaluable in many different research areas, ranging from engineering to chemistry or biology. Yet, automatic analysis and model building based on large data sets generated by these simulations poses many open algorithmic and theoretical questions.

About MPI Magdeburg

The MPI Magdeburg is a world leading center for the development and analysis of mathematical models describing complex chemical, biotechnological and energy-related processes. Presently, around 230 scientific staff members from different disciplines such as process engineering, chemistry, biology, mathematics and computer science perform research in our institute. Excellent computing facilities are available on-site, including our HPC cluster “Mechthild”. The MPI Magdeburg is a stimulating scientific environment with a broad outlook on computational and experimental research on complex dynamical systems, and offers excellent career opportunities for both its members and alumni.

About the position

The DMP group at MPI Magdeburg is an inter-disciplinary research unit addressing these questions from different perspectives. The theoretical centerpiece of our work is the Koopman operator description of dynamical systems, which leads to a linearization of a dynamical system using an infinite-dimensional feature space. On a theoretical level, we are interested in describing the convergence and approximation error of data-driven approximations to the Koopman operator. On the algorithmic level, we design efficient algorithms for the analysis or control of dynamical systems using Koopman operators. On the application end, we apply these methods to efficiently analyze large-scale simulations of molecular systems, using classical or quantum descriptions.

Your profile

We currently have several open projects in all the above areas. If you have a Master’s degree respectively Ph.D. in applied mathematics or physics, and a strong background in dynamical systems, systems and control theory, stochastic analysis, numerical analysis, or scientific machine learning, this could be just the right position for you. Physics students with a strong knowledge of mathematical modeling and numerical methods are also encouraged to apply. Proficiency in a relevant programming language is helpful. The details of the project can be determined according to your background, research interests, and career level.

Our offer

Salaries are determined in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement for the public service (E13 TVöD-Bund) including corresponding social benefits. For graduate students, this will be an E13 75% position, initially limited to 3 years. For postdocs, the position is E13 100%, initially limited to 2 years. In all cases, extensions beyond the initial term are possible.

The Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are under-represented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply. Furthermore, the Max Planck society is committed to increase the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

For further information about the position, please contact Dr. Feliks Nüske nueske@mpi-magdeburg.mpg.de.

Your application

We will start reviewing applications and interviewing candidates as applications come in, applications are still encouraged as long as this advertisement is open. Please send your application (subject: DMP_2023_fullname) as one single pdf-document including a motivation letter, curriculum vitae, certificates, and an academic reference letter, by e-mail to sek-csc@mpi-magdeburg.mpg.de.

Please note the information regarding the storage of personal data.