Where you will be:The position is hosted by the research group Computational and Soft Matter Physics at the Faculty of Physics in the group of Dr. Andreas Zöttl.About the project:ChirTrans investigates how chirality of swimming bacteria determines their active transport processes in complex microstructured heterogeneous environments and in complex shear flows. It combines computational and theoretical modeling at the University of Vienna with experimentsperformed at ESPCI Paris. Our previous work demonstrated the importance of bacterial chirality in transport in simple microchannel flows and near plane surfaces. ChirTrans now aims to uncover how chirality impacts bacterial transport in more complex microstructured environments.The position offers the opportunity to contribute to internationally visible, frontier research. You will have the chance to help build and shape a high-impact interdisciplinary research group while working on your own research.Your responsibilities:As a Postdoctoral Researcher you will:Conduct independent and collaborative research on computational modeling and simulation of bacterial dynamics using coarse-grained hydrodynamic modeling (Brownian Dynamics, Multiparticle Collision Dynamics, etc)Contribute to and lead academic publications in top-tier journals Collaborate closely with experimental collaboration partner at ESPCI Paris led by Prof. Anke LindnerPresent research outcomes at international conferencesYou may contribute to teaching activities depending on interest and availability, in whichcase you participate in evaluation measures and in quality assurance. Your profile:Completed PhD in physics, biophysics, physical engineering, or a closely related fieldStrong background in soft matter physics or biophysicsExperience with theoretical modeling, computer simulations and data analysisProgramming skills in Python and/or C++/FortranAbility to work independently and collaboratively in an international research environmentExcellent command of English (working language of the project)Experience with experimental collaborations is an advantageExperience with high-performance computing is an advantage What we offer:Integration into a high-profile international project with strong international visibilityPossibility for experimental collaboration and research visits at ESPCI ParisAccess to high performance computing facilitiesPossibility to establish new collaborations within the Computational and Soft Matter Physics GroupA dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at the University of ViennaOpportunities for career development and international networkingFixed-term contract and fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 5.014,30 (14 times a year)for a period of 2 yearsFlexible starting date (between 01.07.2026 and 01.01.2027) Application documents:Please apply by submitting: Letter of motivation incl. research interests (1 page) Academic CV (incl. publication list)Doctoral Degree or Statement of expected date of graduationContact details of at least two refereesIf you have any questions, please contact:Andreas Zöttl andreas.zoettl@univie.ac.atWe look forward to new personalities in our team! The University of Vienna has an anti-discriminatory employment policy and attaches great importance to equal opportunities, the advancement of women and diversity. We place particular emphasis on enhancing women’s representation among the academic and general university staff, particularly in leadership roles, and therefore expressly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates.University of Vienna. Space for personalities. Since 1365.Data protectionApplication deadline: 05/31/2026 Apply now