Join us!

We are hiring (updated on 11.08.22) !

Our Chair of Mathematics in Life Sciences at the Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen- Nürnberg (FAU) develops and applies methods of statistical physics to understand complex biological phenomena ranging in scale from DNA molecules to multi-cellular systems. As a part of the recently founded interdisciplinary Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin (https://www.mpzpm.de/) we are contributing to the exciting research at the interphase of physics, biology and medicine.

We are currently looking for excellent candidates with expertise 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, to fill the following positions:

(New) PhD position: How Biofilms heal their wounds?

Biofilms are commonly known as complex bacterial communities that encase themselves in self-produced polymeric matrix substances and excel in withstanding various environmental stresses including antibiotic treatments. Biofilms function as heterogeneous multicellular organisms, sharing capabilities frequently identified with developing eukaryotic organisms and tissue. One such prominent feature in eukaryotic tissues is the ability to recover from mechanical damage and heal wounds. Remarkably, while biofilms in natural environments and in the lab evidently can heal their wounds too, the mechanisms of wound healing in biofilms are virtually unexplored. In this project, using the model biofilm forming organism Bacillus subtilis, we will combine experimental microbiological and biophysical approaches with theoretical modeling to understand how biofilms recover from a damage.

This DFG funded project is a part of the Priority Program (SPP 2389) “Emergent Functions of Bacterial Multicellularity” and in collaboration with the group of Prof. Liraz Chai at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Position is to fill as soon as possible – see bottom of the page for instructions on how to apply!

 

Postdoctoral position

With possible research projects including but not limited to:

– phase-separation in active systems (from chromatin to bacterial colonies)

– mechano-microbiology of biofilms

– biophysics of immunology

 

Applications including cover letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications, and statement of research interests should be submitted via e-mail as a single PDF file. Please also arrange for at least two reference letters. Application documents, recommendation letters as well as any inquiries about the positions 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.