The position involves theoretical research on a number of topics within the field of active matter, for example, the impact of correlations on collective motion in chiral active matter and pattern formation in self-propelled particle systems with chemical reactions.

The successful applicant is expected to have an excellent background in Statistical Mechanics and to mostly focus on analytical work and the development of novel quantitative methods for active matter, and to a lesser extent, on computer simulations of active fluids and solids. Experience in scientific programming in C/C++, Fortran, Mathematica or similar is required.

The successful candidate will either hold a PhD in Physics or a related area, or alternatively will provide evidence that the PhD will be completed within the first three months on the job. Ideally, the candidate has already worked in the area of soft active matter and is familiar with kinetic theory, dynamic mean-field theory and the theory of stochastic processes including Fokker-Planck Equations and path integral techniques. However, applicants from other areas of theoretical physics such as quantum field theory or theoretical high-energy physics, who are highly motivated to start a new line of research in an exciting and interdisciplinary field, are encouraged to apply.

The teaching responsibility is four credit hours per week. Possible teaching languages are German and English. Excellent communication skills are required. The salary level is TV-L 13. The start date is flexible after August 31, 2022.

To apply, submit the following documents per email to Prof. Thomas Ihle, tihle2004@zoho.com, until May 31, 2022 with reference to the job position number 22/Sa12: cover letter, CV, list of publications, transcripts, PhD thesis, and contact information of at least two references, and a research statement of max 3 pages, where you describe your previous achievements and outline your general research interests.

The position will remain open until it is filled.

Selected Publications: 1) R. Kürsten and T. Ihle, Quantitative kinetic theory of flocking with three-particle closure, Phys. Rev. E 104, 034604 (2021)

2) R. Kürsten and T. Ihle, Dry Active Matter Exhibits a Self-Organized Cross Sea Phase, Phys. Rev. Lett. 125, 188003 (2020)

3) R. Kürsten at al., Multiple Particle Correlation Analysis of Many-Particle Systems: Formalism and Application to Active Matter, Phys. Rev. Lett. 124, 088002 (2020)

4) R. Piwowarczyk et al., Influence of sensorial delay on clustering and swarming Phys. Rev. E 100, 012607 (2019)

5) R. Kürsten, V. Sushkov, and T. Ihle, Giant Kovacs-Like Memory Effect for Active Particles Phys. Rev. Lett. 119, 188001 (2017)