Germany - SRC SimTech University of Stuttgart PhD Positions in Various Fields

Universität Stuttgart with its 20,000 students and 7,000 employees is one of the leading European Research Universities with a main focus on engineering and natural sciences. Universität Stuttgart is committed to excellent basic and applied research and interdisciplinary academic education.

The excellence initiative of the German state and federal governments has approved the funding of the Cluster of Excellence EXC 310 Simulation Technology (SimTech) at Universität Stuttgart. In this context, the Stuttgart Research Centre for Simulation Technology (SRC SimTech) is asking for applications for scientists at the Postdoc and PhD level to pursue research in future-orientated research fields.

A. PhD Student in the Field of Skeletal Muscle Modelling with Applications to Lumbar Spine Mechanics
The PhD student is supposed to work on a project focusing on developing novel computational techniques to model skeletal muscles mechanics. The goal is to overcome the computational challenge of realistically modelling lumbar spine muscle mechanics while taking into account the influence of a large number of muscles involved in complex upper body movements.
The skeletal muscles are modelled using the Finite Element method in three dimensions and principles of nonlinear continuum mechanics. For this purpose, a good background in computational continuum mechanics, the Finite Element Method, and some programming skills are desirable.

The position has the designated salary bracket TV-L 13 and a limited tenure of three years with a possible extension. Applications with the usual documents (CV, degree certificates, references, publication list, letter of motivation) should be sent to JP Oliver Röhrle, PhD (roehrle@mechbau.uni-stuttgart.de), Institute of Applied Mechanics, Pfaffenwaldring 7, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.

B. PhD Student Position in the Field of Multi-scale Simulation of Solids
The PhD student is supposed to work on a project concerned with the computational modelling of phenomena in dynamic fracture through the incorporation of effects from different length scales into the finite element framework. Theoretical foundations of solids at failure show notable discrepancies when compared to experimental results due to the crucial role of dynamic instabilities. On the macroscopic scale, dynamic fracture is experienced by the presence of cracks or shearbands. The influence of the different spatial scales becomes apparent when considering dynamic crack microbranching processes. Applicants with a diploma or masters degree in engineering, mathematics, or physics are invited. The successful candidate should have a strong background in continuum mechanics as well as knowledge in programming and the finite element method.

The position has the designated salary bracket TV-L 13 and a limited tenure of three years with a possible extension.
Applications with the usual documents (CV, degree certificates, references, publication list, letter of motivation) should be sent as soon as possible to JP Christian Linder, PhD (linder@mechbau.uni-stuttgart.de) Institute of Applied Mechanics (Chair I), Pfaffenwaldring 7, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.

C. PhD Student Position in the Field of Systems Biology approaches for secretory pathway regulation
Many proteins are secreted into the extracellular environment where they function as hormones, neurotransmitters or antibodies. These proteins play a crucial role in transmitting signals across different cells and tissues, and secretory transport is highly regulated to ensure a proper activity.
The project focuses on the investigation of the regulatory network that controls protein secretion in mammalian cells. The aim is to develop a data- and knowledgedriven modeling approach for regulation mechanisms of secretory transport, in particular, at the trans-Golgi network.

We are searching for a young researcher with a background in natural sciences (mathematics, physics) or mathematics or biology, and a strong interest in dynamic modeling approaches and analysis methods for intracellular networks. The highly motivated candidate should closely collaborate with the Institute of Cell Biology and Immunology at the University of Stuttgart.
The position is located at the Institute for Systems Theory and Automatic Control with the designated salary bracket TV-L 13.
Applications with the usual documents (CV, degree certificates, references, publications, letter of motivation) should be sent to JP Dr. Nicole Radde (radde@ist.uni-stuttgart.de), Institute for Systems Theory and Automatic Control, Pfaffenwaldring 9, 70550 Stuttgart, Germany.

D. PhD Student Position in the area of molecular dynamics simulations of biochemical systems
We are searching for a highly motivated person to investigate biological receptors (TNF) on the cell membrane by means of molecular dynamics simulations in the course of a PhD project. The understanding of the receptor function will aid the development of anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory drugs. The project includes method and code development in the area of free-energy simulations.
Candidates should have a background in chemistry, physics, biology, or related disciplines and should have a strong interest in computer simulations and program development. Excellent English skills are a pre-requisite.
We offer participation at international conferences, advanced training in different fields of simulation technology, as well as a possible stay abroad for three months in a collaborating institute. Salary according to TV-L 13/2.

Applications should be sent (preferably via email) to JP Dr. Johannes Kaestner (kaestner@theochem.uni-stuttgart.de), Institute for Theoretical Chemistry, Pfaffenwaldring 55, D-70569 Stuttgart, Germany.
For more information on the group, see http://www.theochem.uni-stuttgart.de/kaestner/

General Remarks:
The PhDs are expected to participate actively in the SimTech Teaching Programmes and Industry Transfer Concepts.

Universität Stuttgart wishes to increase the proportion of female academic staff and, for this reason, especially welcomes applications from women. Severely challenged persons will be given preference in case of equal qualifications.