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April 2024.

We are looking for 2 postdoctoral researchers in theoretical/computational soft matter/biological physics at IST Austria in Vienna.

The first position is on modelling cell division in bacteria, which occurs via the inward growth of polymeric cell wall. It will involve non-equilibrium coarse-grained simulations of dynamic material growth, coupled to cell mechanics and cell signalling. The project is embedded within a recently awarded 8 years long Wellcome Trust Discovery Award in collaboration with a super-resolution microscopy (Séamus Holden, University Warwick) and a cryo-EM groups  (Jan Löwe, MRC LMB Cambridge). It will involve short stays in the UK and active regular communication between the three labs.

The second position is on non-equilibrium reshaping of cell membranes within the context of ecological interactions between many cells in a community. A potential model would combine cell mechanics, metabolic exchanges, and environmental pressures, and study their role in cell reshaping. It will involve exchanges with in vitro and in vivo experimental set-ups from several collaborators.

Project designs and the starting dates can be adjusted in line with the candidates’ interests. Each position is for 3 years initially, with a possibility of extension up to 5 years.

Typically we look for candidates with backgrounds in soft matter physics, statistical mechanics, biological physics, quantitative biology, and/or molecular modelling. However, enthusiasm for science and research is the most important criterion.

About us: We develop models, rooted in statistical mechanics and soft matter physics, to describe collective non-equilibrium phenomena in living systems. IST Austria is an interdisciplinary international research institute on the outskirts of Vienna, equipped with state of the art facilities, vibrant community in soft matter and biophysics, excellent support for international mobility and career development, and competitive salaries. Vienna is a very nice place to live. <3 To apply please send a CV and a short description of the past research/interest for our group to andela . saric @ ist. ac. at.

Informal enquiries welcome!