In the Department of Living Matter Physics (LMP) we seek to fill a number of Postdoctoral Researcher positions - Statistical Physics and Active Matter.

The Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization (MPI-DS) at Göttingen, Germany, is an international, interdisciplinary and collaborative environment offering an exceptional research setting. It hosts a range of theoretical and experimental fundamental scientific research and a diverse group of researchers. Altogether, it employs about 300 people.

The LMP department engages in a wide range of theoretical research aimed at understanding the dynamics of living systems from a physical perspective. The department currently hosts Ramin Golestanian (director), Philip Bittihn (group leader), Suropriya Saha (group leader), and a number of postdoctoral researchers, students, and visitors.

The research

The postdoctoral researchers (m/f/d) will engage in theoretical and computational research in Nonequilibrium Statistical Physics and Active Matter.

Your profile

We are looking for excellent, enthusiastic and self-motivated researchers with relevant background and good communication skills to join our research team.

The ideal candidate should have:

• a PhD/DPhil degree (or comparable) with a background in theoretical physics, applied mathematics or related disciplines from a recognized university,
• prior experience with nonequilibrium statistical physics and a strong interest in active matter physics,
• the ability and desire to work in an international team on inter-disciplinary research topics;
• a good command of English, which is the working language of the department. German is an asset but not required.

Our offer

We are offering excellent working conditions in a highly interdisciplinary and stimulating research environment. Salary is in accordance with the German state public service salary scale (E13 TVöD-Bund) and the corresponding social benefits. Working hours are full time. We offer opportunities regarding work life balance as well as health promotion services. The postdoctoral appointment is for two years. The starting date is flexible.

The Max Planck Society is committed to achieving the highest level of excellence and diversity. We encourage applications from women, especially in areas where they are underrepresented, which includes theoretical physics. Moreover, we are committed to providing suitable working environment for everyone including individuals with disabilities.

Your application

Please apply online via our application portal and submit your CV, publication list, a statement of research interest, and contacts of two referees. In addition to the description of your proposed research, it should also briefly describe your past and current research interests and why you are interested in joining our department. Processing of applications will start after the deadline of 10th January 2026 , and will stop when the positions are filled.

For questions, please contact:

Tel. +49 551 5176-100
Email: golestanian-office@ds.mpg.de

Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization
Prof. Dr. Ramin Golestanian