Research Associate in Physics

University of Munster

43,000 students and 8,000 employees in teaching, research and administration, all working together to shape perspectives for the future – that is the University of Münster. Embedded in the vibrant atmosphere of Münster with its high standard of living, the University’s diverse research profile and attractive study programmes draw students and researchers throughout Germany and from around the world.

The Institute for Theoretical Physics (ITP) in the Faculty of Physics at the University of Münster, Germany, is seeking to fill the position of a

in the research group of Prof Uwe Thiele commencing on 1 April 2025. We are offering a fixed-term full-time for 4 years. Full-time employees are required to teach 4 hours per week during the semester.

Your tasks:

  • Collaboration in research and teaching at the Institute of Theoretical Physics
  • Organization and supervision of problem classes and project groups for bachelor’s and master’s courses in theoretical physics and in the context of interdisciplinary courses, as well as support in the supervision of theses and seminars
  • Research on the topic of “Self-organization and Complexity” including, in particular, research on the modelling of structure-forming dynamics in extended systems, e.g. in relation to phase transitions in active soft matter
  • Participation in the organization and implementation of all activities of the research group
  • Participation in the academic departmental administration

This position is tied to working towards a Habilitation.

Our expectations:

  • A doctorate in theoretical physics or a related discipline, with above-average results, is a prerequisite.
  • Practical experience in conducting research projects on the theory of self-organization and complexity, in particular, on active systems, is expected.
  • Extensive knowledge of the fundamentals of theoretical and computational nonlinear physics (and theoretical physics in general) is required.
  • A very good command of written and spoken English is required.
  • A very good command of written and spoken German is an advantage.
  • Experience in teaching theoretical physics, especially nonlinear physics, is desirable.
  • Experience in the successful acquisition of third-party funding is an advantage.
  • Ability to work in a team, communication skills, organizational skills and an independent way of working are required.

Advantages for you:

  • Appreciation, commitment, openness and respect – values which are important to us.
  • Our broad range of diverse work-time models offers great flexibility – also when working from home.
  • If you have family members or young children in your care, our Family Service Office offers concrete support to help you balance your private and professional responsibilities.
  • As an educational institution, we are deeply committed to offering occupational training and continuing education opportunities tailored to your individual needs.
  • From A – Z, Aikido to Zumba, our sport and health programmes ensure a healthy work-life balance.
  • As a university employee, you are entitled to numerous benefits afforded to public servants, e.g. an attractive company pension scheme (VBL), an annual end-of-year bonus and a position that is shielded from economic fluctuations.

The University of Münster strongly supports equal opportunity and diversity. We welcome all applicants regardless of sex, nationality, ethnic or social background, religion or worldview, disability, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. We are committed to creating family-friendly working conditions. Part-time options are generally available.

We actively encourage applications by women. Women with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered unless these are outweighed by reasons which necessitate the selection of another candidate.

 

Please submit your application via email, as a single PDF file (max 10Mb), by 2024-12-06 to:

Prof Uwe Thiele | Universität Münster | Institut für Theoretische Physik | Wilhelm-Klemm-Str. 9 |
D-48149 Münster | Email: u.thiele@uni-muenster.de

Applications should contain a cover letter, your CV, copies of course certificates and transcripts, and a brief research and teaching statement. In addition, please arrange for a letter of reference to be sent directly to the same email address by the same deadline.

Reference number: 2024_09_43