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- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research in active nematics and analyse experimental data.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Edinburgh's School of Physics and Astronomy.
- Benefits: Fully-funded PhD with generous living allowances and mobility support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in biophysics while collaborating with top researchers across Europe.
- Qualifications: Strong background in physics or mathematics; passion for research is essential.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to develop skills in a dynamic, international research network.
The predicted salary is between 2840 - 2840 £ per month.
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 "Beyond the extensile/contractile dichotomy in active nematics" will be conducted under the supervision of Dr Tyler Shendruk at the University of Edinburgh, UK. It will involve analysing experimental data and advancing numerical simulations to propose models for understanding biologically relevant active nematics beyond the traditional idealisation of extensile/contractile dichotomy. Secondments with Dr Hugues Chateé at CEA Saclay, France 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.
Requirements / 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 (UK) 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 141.7% to account for the cost of living and applicable deductions in the UK. The network budget includes a mobility allowance of €8,520 per year to support living in a new country. Where applicable a family allowance of €7,920 per year is available. Long-term leave and special needs allowances can also be applied for. All research, training and networking activities (including secondments) are funded by the network.
Eligibility criteria
- Candidates must not be in possession of a doctoral degree (PhD) at the date of recruitment.
- Candidates can be of any nationality.
- CAFE-BIO aims to promote gender equality. Suitably qualified female candidates, and candidates from any other under-represented group, are therefore explicitly encouraged to apply.
- PhD research projects are to begin on September 1st 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Selection process
Candidates are requested to apply for three PhD research projects that they are eligible for, in ranked order of preference, in a single application. Project preferences will be considered when allocating projects to candidates, in combination with a ranking based on the written application documents and performance at interview for shortlisted candidates.
Note: Number of offers available 1
Location Company/Institute: University of Edinburgh Country: United Kingdom City: Edinburgh Address: James Clerk Maxwell Building, The Kings Buildings, Edinburgh, EH9 3FD
PhD Position (MSCA DN CAFE-BIO) Beyond the extensile/contractile dichotomy in active nematics employer: University of Edinburgh
Contact Detail:
University of Edinburgh Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Position (MSCA DN CAFE-BIO) Beyond the extensile/contractile dichotomy in active nematics
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend conferences, workshops, or even casual meet-ups in your field. You never know who might be looking for someone just like you, and personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the team and their projects. Show genuine interest in their work and come armed with questions that demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your research interests and how they align with the position. A clear and confident presentation of your ideas can make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their applications.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Position (MSCA DN CAFE-BIO) Beyond the extensile/contractile dichotomy in active nematics
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for physics and biophysics shine through in your application. We want to see why you're excited about this PhD position and how it aligns with your career goals.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in statistical physics and computational methods. We love seeing how your background fits into the project, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us your story. Explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role and how your skills can contribute to the research. Keep it engaging and personal!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your documents and can consider you for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the key concepts in statistical physics and computational methods. Brush up on your knowledge about active nematics and be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the project’s goals.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for the research area and the specific project. Talk about why you’re excited about the opportunity to work under Dr Tyler Shendruk and how you see yourself contributing to the CAFE-BIO network.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask during the interview. This could be about the research methodologies, potential collaborations, or the training opportunities available within the network. It shows you’re engaged and genuinely interested.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable discussing your research experience and future aspirations. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time for the real thing!
