Research Assistant in the Quantum Biology and Computational Physics Group

About us

The Quantum Biology and Computational Physics Group at the University of Oldenburg invites applications for a researcher position (for a maximum of 6 years, TV-L E13/50%) in the area of computational biophysics. The position provides opportunities to engage in cutting-edge interdisciplinary research at the interface of quantum biology, computational physics, chemistry, and computer sciences. The overall goal of this research project is to advance theoretical and computational modelling techniques for exploring quantum effects at ambient temperature in model systems and biology. Specifically, the project aims to systematically study the effects of different spin-environment interactions on the magnetic field sensitivity of the quantum radical pairs in synergy with state-of-the art experimental validation. The synergetic approach of theory and experiment ultimately aims at delivering a much more complete understanding of the fundamental quantum mechanical principles underlying radical pair based magnetic sensing and will provide inspirational ideas for developing advanced sensor systems and for processing quantum information using room temperature devices.

The newly funded Cluster of Excellence NaviSense for the Sensory Basis, Mechanisms, and Impacts of Animal Navigation is a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary research project hosted at the University of Oldenburg and involving national and international partner institutions. As a diverse and international team of scientists from biology, physics, chemistry, computer sciences and social sciences we provide a thorough, interdisciplinary understanding of the senses and mechanisms used by animals to navigate, and how these mechanisms can inspire technology and impact society, ecology, and biodiversity. NaviSense performs research in the areas of (1) animal navigation mechanisms and their underlying senses, (2) quantum effects at ambient temperature in model systems and biology, (3) ecological and conservation related consequences of animal navigation, and (4) links biological and technical systems through models, algorithms, and devices. The acquired knowledge can help to solve major societal questions related e.g. to the biodiversity crisis, GPS independent navigation, and quantum sensing at ambient temperature. For more information see https://navisense.org /.

The Quantum Biology and Computational Physics research group ( www.quantbiolab.com ) is part of the Cluster of Excellence NaviSense and covers a broad range of questions on theory of biomolecules and smart inorganic materials. The main research areas of the group, include quantum chemistry and molecular simulations. The group utilizes and develops theoretical and computational methods including (i) classical and quantum molecular dynamics; (ii) multiscale techniques; (iii) Monte-Carlo based methods; (iv) free energy methods; (v) global optimization methods; (vi) linear scaling methods. Of particular interest are those biological processes that trigger energy conversion into forms that are usable for chemical transformations and are quantum mechanical in nature. Such processes involve chemical reactions, light absorption, formation of excited electronic states, transfer of excitation energy, and transfer of electrons and protons in chemical processes.

Your tasks

Your tasks would include:

• Develop and advance computational methods for investigating quantum effects at ambient temperatures in both model systems and biological contexts
• Design, execute, and analyse numerical simulations to support research objectives
• Provide expertise to NaviSense scientists in the design, planning, and implementation of computational strategies and related analyses, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and advisory support
• Advise on and/or co-supervise computational biophysical analyses, including interpretation and visualization of results
• Initiate and pursue novel research questions of personal interest that align with the overarching themes of NaviSense
• Collaborate with researchers across disciplines on joint research projects and publications
• Prepare scientific manuscripts and present findings at international conferences
• Actively participate in NaviSense events, such as retreats and seminars, to share research, foster scientific dialogue, and contribute to team building
• Contribute to teaching activities and supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s students in accordance with university regulations

Your profile

Required qualifications:

• Qualifying Master’s degree (or equivalent)
• Advanced programming proficiency in Python, C/C++, Rust and Bash, including experience in developing highly parallelised programs for high-performance computing (HPC) systems
• Proficiency in at least one language for data analysis (MATLAB, R or similar)
• Strong expertise in web development, including Django, HTML, Bootstrap, SQL, and JavaScript
• Strong expertise in designing and implementing machine learning algorithms, including familiarity with machine learning frameworks (pyTorch, TensorFlow, JAX or similar)
• Skilled in computational infrastructure and virtualization, with experience setting up and administering Linux servers, Docker, and LXC/LXD environments
• Background in computer simulations of many-body systems, including classical molecular dynamics, quantum chemical calculations, and spin dynamics
• Practical experience with quantum chemistry and molecular mechanics software packages such as Octopus, Gaussian, NAMD, and GROMACS
• Solid foundation in both Bayesian and frequentist statistical methods
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary research environments with physicists, biologists, computer scientists, and mathematicians
• Strong problem-solving skills, including resolving computational issues under time constraints, supporting live production systems, and addressing diverse user needs
• Hands-on experience with HPC systems, both local and nationwide resources
• Experience with protein sequence data analysis, including automated retrieval, annotation and alignment
• Extensive track record of presenting and communicating research both at international conferences as well as to the general public
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken

Preferable/Desirable:

• Dedication for the research field.
• Enthusiasm for and willingness to engage in interdisciplinary and international collaborations across many different fields of expertise.
• Ability to work independently.
• Showing team spirit.
• Good communication skills.

We offer

• Being part of a unique interdisciplinary, collaborative, international and diverse research team and scientific environment.
• Access to a wide range of expertise, modern equipment and state-of-the-art techniques.
• Payment in accordance with collective bargaining law (special annual payment, public service pension scheme, asset-related benefits) incl. 30 days annual leave.
• A family-friendly environment with flexible working hours.
• Benefits from the university's health promotion program and possibility to participate in the university sports program.

Our standards

The University of Oldenburg is dedicated to increase the percentage of female employees in the field of science. Therefore, female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. In accordance to § 21 Section 3 NHG, female candidates with equal qualifications will be preferentially considered. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference in case of equal qualification.

Further information

Depending on availability, the part-time position (50%) may be upgraded to full-time if necessary.