Postdoctoral position in theoretical active matter at the University of Geneva, Switzerland

The Theory Group for Active and Living Matter at the University of Geneva invites applicants for postdoctoral researcher within the dept. of Theoretical Physics. The positions will work as part of a project titled “Controlling active matter with topology and geometry”. The intended start date is August 2023 for a duration of 2 years. 

Active matter is the study of out of equilibrium systems that are able to internally generate mechanical stress, resulting in materials that are able to move themselves. There are many examples of active materials, in particular in the life sciences. My group predominantly studies a range of active systems often in relation to biological systems. More information is available on my website https://sites.google.com/view/danieljgpearce/home .

In particular, this project will look at the interactions between topological defects in active nematic materials and how they respond to and influence the geometry and topology of the materials. This project will be carried out in close collaboration with experimental researchers and the results will be applied to understand living systems and design new functional materials. Specifically, the morphogenesis of freshwater Hydra and the development of micron scale biological robots. 

The candidate should have:

• PhD in Theoretical Physics or a related discipline
• Experience performing computational and/or theoretical research into active matter. In particular hydrodynamic theory/simulation, agent based modeling, continuum elasticity.
• Excellent spoken and written English
  

Geneva is a beautiful city located next to Lac Leman and close to the Swiss Alps. The position of postdoctoral researcher in Geneva is a salaried position. The salary is set according to scale 14 of the Canton of Geneva, with a minimum starting salary of CHF 81,347.00 per year before tax depending on experience. As per SNSF regulations, the postdoc cannot have obtained their PhD earlier than September 2019. The University of Geneva offers flexible working hours, six weeks of annual leave, and family-friendly working conditions including parental leave. Postdoctoral researchers are expected to participate in teaching activities.

The postdoctoral researcher will work in the Theory Group for Active and Living Matter under the supervision of Prof. Daniel Pearce within the department of Theoretical Physics at the University of Geneva. The University of Geneva has a strong community of researchers into the fields of Active Matter and the Physics of Life including  both theoretical and experimental groups. The postdoc will have many opportunities to interact with a range of researchers across different departments. 

Applications should be written in English and contain:

• Curriculum vitae including publication list
• Motivation letter
• Research vision (max 1 page)
• Details of at least three senior scientists that can act as a reference

Applications should be emailed directly to me at daniel.pearce@unige.ch with the subject line "Postdoc application " followed by your name. Applicants will be considered continuously until the positions are filled.