Iain Johnston

The University of Bergen invites applications for a PhD Research Fellow position in comparative mitochondrial dynamics, hosted at the Department of Mathematics. This interdisciplinary project, funded by the Norwegian Research Council (NFR), integrates experimental and computational approaches to investigate the universal principles of mitochondrial motion across diverse species, including plants, algae, and marine metazoa. Mitochondria are essential organelles that exhibit complex, dynamic behaviors within cells, forming 'social networks' that facilitate the exchange of biomolecules. The project builds on recent cross-eukaryotic theory and experimental evidence, aiming to characterize mitochondrial dynamics beyond traditional model species. Research tasks will involve live-cell imaging, confocal microscopy, and computational analysis using quantitative cell biology and modelling tools such as R. The position is part of the 'MitoPhyto' project, which combines experimental and modelling approaches to explore mitochondrial behavior. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with another PhD student focused on mathematical modelling, as well as with the principal investigator and research team at the Michael Sars Centre. The role offers exciting development opportunities in a strong professional environment, with access to advanced research facilities and collaborative networks. Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in cell biology, biomathematics, or a related field, or have submitted their master's thesis for assessment prior to the application deadline. Experience with live-cell confocal microscopy, quantitative cell biology, computational modelling (especially using R), and applied statistics is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and must be proficient in both written and oral English. Personal and relational qualities will be emphasized during the selection process. The fellowship is for a fixed-term period of 3 years, with the possibility of a 4th year depending on qualifications and departmental needs. The gross annual salary is NOK 568,700, with further increases based on length of service. Additional benefits include enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund and access to welfare programs. The position requires participation in an approved PhD educational programme at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, with admission to the programme required within two months of starting the position. Applications must be submitted via the Jobbnorge portal and include a brief account of research interests and motivation, a detailed justification of qualifications, names and contact information for two referees (one should be the main advisor for the master's thesis), CV, transcripts, diplomas, and documentation of English proficiency if required. Certified translations into English or a Scandinavian language must be uploaded. The University of Bergen is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. For further information, contact Professor Iain Johnston ([email protected]) or Head of Department Antonella Zanna Munthe-Kaas ([email protected]). The application deadline is 18 January 2026.

The University of Bergen, a leading European institution recognized for excellence in research and education, invites applications for a PhD Research Fellow in modelling collective mitochondrial dynamics at the Department of Mathematics. This position is part of the NFR-funded 'MitoPhyto' project, which integrates experimental and modelling approaches to understand mitochondrial behaviour in biological cells. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment, collaborating closely with experimental colleagues to investigate the emergent collective motion of mitochondria. Mitochondria, essential cellular compartments, exhibit rapid and complex dynamics, forming 'social networks' that facilitate biomolecule exchange and maintenance. The project builds on recent mathematical theory linking stochastic, network, and agent-based modelling to describe these phenomena, supported by experimental data in model plants. The research aims to uncover universal principles governing mitochondrial motion across species, employing tools from network theory, set-valued optimisation, operations research, and physical and stochastic modelling. This PhD position emphasizes interdisciplinary research, combining mathematical and computational modelling with real-world biological data. Opportunities to gain laboratory experience are available, and the candidate will work alongside another PhD student focused on experimental biology, fostering collaboration and skill development within the 'MitoPhyto' team. The position is funded for three years, with the possibility of a fourth year depending on qualifications and departmental needs. The gross annual salary is NOK 568,700, with further increases based on service length. Additional benefits include enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund and access to welfare programs. The successful applicant will participate in an approved PhD educational programme at the Faculty of Science and Technology, with admission required within two months of starting the position. Applicants must hold a master's degree or equivalent in physics, applied mathematics, or a related modelling discipline, or have submitted their master's thesis for assessment prior to the deadline. Experience in agent-based modelling, operations research, network science, discrete stochastic models, applied statistics, cell biology, and computational modelling (especially using R) is advantageous. Proficiency in written and oral English is required, and candidates should demonstrate independence, structured work habits, and strong collaborative skills. Personal and relational qualities will be considered in the selection process. The University of Bergen values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or age. The recruitment process is committed to inclusivity and equal opportunity, ensuring at least one qualified applicant from underrepresented groups is invited for interview. To apply, submit your application and supporting documents via the Jobbnorge portal. Required materials include a statement of research interests and motivation, detailed justification of qualifications, contact information for two referees (including your master's thesis advisor), CV, transcripts, diplomas, certificates, documentation of English proficiency, and a publication list. All documents must be in English or a Scandinavian language. For further information, contact Professor Iain Johnston ([email protected]) or Head of Department Antonella Zanna Munthe-Kaas ([email protected]). HR-related queries can be directed to Karoline Christiansen ([email protected]). Application deadline: 18 January 2026.