Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
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Post Doc: Statistical physics of chromosomes Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in Netherlands
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Biophysics
Funding
ERC-funded 2-year postdoc position; salary €3,706–€5,760 gross per month on a full-time basis.
Deadline
Dec 30, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
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About this position
Broedersz group (Theoretical Physics of Life), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
This ERC-funded postdoctoral project explores the statistical and dynamic organization of bacterial chromosomes. The successful candidate will join the Broedersz group, part of the Section for Physics of Living Systems in the Physics department at VU Amsterdam, and contribute to a research program on the physics of living systems.
The project, Learn4DChromosome, addresses how bacterial chromosomes maintain a highly variable, fluctuating physical organization while still supporting essential processes such as transcription, replication, and segregation. The postdoc will combine data-driven theoretical methods with mechanistic models to study chromosome organization across the cell cycle.
Research in this position is grounded in equilibrium and non-equilibrium statistical physics, information theory, and soft condensed matter physics. The work will be carried out in close collaboration with several experimental groups, reflecting the group’s interdisciplinary and collaborative approach to biophysics and living systems.
The Broedersz group describes itself as a worldwide leader in the statistical physics of living systems, spanning chromosomes, migrating cells, and multicellular tissues. The broader research environment at VU Amsterdam’s Faculty of Science is strongly interdisciplinary, with a mix of theoretical, computational, and experimental work in a large scientific community in Amsterdam.
The position also includes opportunities to supervise students and contribute to tutorial classes in the teaching program.
Funding details
ERC-funded 2-year postdoc position; salary €3,706–€5,760 gross per month on a full-time basis.
What's required
A PhD degree in Physics is required, preferably with a background in theoretical physics, statistical physics, soft matter physics, or biological physics. Experience with inference or machine learning tools and basic programming is a plus. Applications must be written in English.
How to apply
Submit a cover letter (one page maximum), CV, list of grades from your last higher education diploma, publication list if relevant, and contact details of 3 references. Send the application through the application link; applications by email will not be considered.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.