At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct research on molecular motors using advanced simulations and statistical physics.
- Company: Join the Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, a leading research institute in Italy.
- Benefits: Fully-funded PhD with generous living allowances and mobility support.
- Why this job: Make groundbreaking discoveries in biophysics while collaborating internationally.
- Qualifications: Strong background in physics or mathematics, especially in statistical physics.
- Other info: Gain valuable skills through training and secondments in top institutions.
The predicted salary is between 2840 - 2840 £ per month.
Organisation/Company: Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche
Department: NANOTEC-CNR
Institute of Nanotechnology
Research Field:
- Physics » Statistical physics
- Physics » Computational physics
- Physics » Biophysics
Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1)
Positions: PhD Positions
Application Deadline: 1 Apr 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/London)
Country: United Kingdom
Type of Contract: Temporary
Job Status: Full-time
Offer Starting Date: 1 Jan 2026
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe - MSCA
Reference Number: CAFE-BIO
Grant Agreement Number:
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No
Offer Description: A fully-funded PhD position is available to candidates of all nationalities as part of the MSCA Doctoral Network CAFE-BIO (A Coherent Analysis Framework for Emergence in Biological Systems). Researchers in this network will apply analytical and computational methods and understanding from physics (particularly statistical physics) to understand emergent phenomena in biological systems. The network involves 15 Doctoral Candidates across 12 host institutions.
This specific project concerns the dynamics of interacting molecular motors and will be conducted under the supervision of Dr Claudio Maggi at NANOTEC-CNR, Italy. It will involve developing efficient GPU simulations of flagellar models and applying the theory of stochastic thermodynamics to understand the precision of flagellar beating. Secondments with Dr Patrick Pietzonka at the University of Edinburgh, UK, and with IndiScale GmbH in Göttingen, Germany, will provide training in complementary methods.
All 15 CAFE-BIO Doctoral Candidates will participate in scientific and skills training provided by the network, which combined with the research project will lead to a PhD degree. Generous allowances are paid for living expenses and mobility, as per the MSCA Doctoral Network work programme. Additional family, long-term leave and special needs allowances are also available on application.
Candidates are eligible to apply for CAFE-BIO positions if they have an excellent first degree that qualifies for PhD study in physics, mathematics and adjacent fields, with preferably a strong background in statistical physics.
Specific Requirements: At the time of recruitment no candidate may have resided or carried out their main activity (work, study etc.) in the country of the eventual host institution (Italy) for more than 12 months in the last 3 years.
Languages: ENGLISH Level Good
Additional Information: The Doctoral Candidate will be employed on a full-time researcher contract for an initial 36 month period. A notional living allowance of €4,010 per month (gross) adjusted by a factor of 95.3%.
PhD Position (MSCA DN CAFE-BIO) Dynamics of interacting molecular motors in London employer: Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche
Contact Detail:
Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Position (MSCA DN CAFE-BIO) Dynamics of interacting molecular motors in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past PhD candidates in similar fields. They can give you insider tips on the application process and what to expect during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your knowledge of statistical physics and molecular motors. Be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the project’s goals and show your enthusiasm for the research!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a good follow-up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother experience! We’ve streamlined the process to make it easier for you to showcase your skills and passion for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Position (MSCA DN CAFE-BIO) Dynamics of interacting molecular motors in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant skills and experiences in physics, especially in statistical and computational physics. We want to see how your background aligns with the dynamics of molecular motors!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about this PhD position and how you can contribute to the CAFE-BIO network. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through!
Showcase Your Research Experience: If you've done any research projects or have experience with GPU simulations, make sure to include that! We love seeing candidates who have hands-on experience that relates to our work.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves.
How to prepare for a job interview at Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of statistical physics and computational methods. Familiarise yourself with the dynamics of molecular motors and be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the project. This will show your genuine interest and expertise.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to GPU simulations and stochastic thermodynamics. Practise explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as this demonstrates your understanding and ability to communicate effectively.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Collaboration
This position involves secondments and collaboration with other researchers. Be prepared to discuss your experiences working in teams and how you can contribute to a collaborative environment. Highlight any previous projects where teamwork was key.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the research environment or the specific project. This shows that you’re not just interested in the position but also in how you can grow and contribute within the team.