University assistant predoctoral: collective dynamics of topological polymers

Doctoral position in Prof. Christos Likos's Computational and Soft Matter Physics group at the University of Vienna's Faculty of Physics. The group develops theoretical and computational models of soft condensed matter, with an emphasis on the statistical mechanics of equilibrium and non-equilibrium structure formation and on models of rheology. The project studies the collective dynamics of topological polymers, such as polygon-shaped DNA constructs, and the emergence of glassy behaviour in their concentrated solutions.

Modelling and simulation in Vienna proceed in close coordination with experiments at the Jülich Research Center in Germany. The candidate presents a research plan and concludes a dissertation agreement within 12–18 months, and contributes to lab courses, exercise classes and outreach. The contract is 30 hours per week for 3 years, with a basic salary of EUR 3,776.10 on a full-time basis.

MSc in physics or chemistry; experience with molecular simulation methods (MD/MC), particularly rare-event simulation; excellent knowledge of statistical mechanics and very good knowledge of polymer physics; excellent English (German is a plus).