ERC PhD Position in Low-Dimensional Topology and Knot Theory

Faculty of Mathematics – Low Dimensional Topology

In order to fill a fixed‑term part‑time (29.8725 hours/week = 75%) position starting 1 April (to be agreed), we are looking for an ERC PhD researcher.

Our research group works in low‑dimensional topology and knot theory. We are interested in link homology theories, such as Heegaard Floer and Khovanov homology, and their application to open topological problems. Our work is supported by an individual research grant (project number ) from the German Research Foundation (DFG) and a Starting Grant (project number ) from the European Research Council (ERC).

Ruhr University Bochum is one of Germany’s largest universities, with a mathematics department that maintains a strong research focus, particularly in geometry and topology. The department is home to the Floer Centre of Geometry, a hub for collaboration with other German mathematical research centres, many of which are located nearby.

• Conduct individual and collaborative research projects under the supervision of the PI of the ERC Starting Grant, "Cut‑and‑Paste Conjectures and Multicurves", which funds the position.
• Publish high‑quality papers in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Disseminate research through talks at international workshops and conferences.
• Organize and actively participate in research group seminars.
• Contribute to fostering a collegial, inclusive, and respectful working environment where everyone is treated fairly, with dignity and respect.

• (Essential) Excellent Bachelor’s Degree
• (Essential) Excellent Master’s Degree (or close to submission)
• (Essential) Good communication skills in either English or German.
• (Desirable, but not essential) Master’s thesis in topology, geometry, or algebra.
• (Desirable, but not essential) Working knowledge of a programming language (e.g., Python, C, C++).

• Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr.
• Collaboration in a committed and appreciative team.
• A job in the heart of the lively Ruhr metropolitan region with its diverse cultural offerings.

Benefits: ample travel funding and no teaching responsibilities.

Other incentives (standard German work benefits): comprehensive health insurance and social security benefits, generous vacation policies, and a strong work‑life balance.

Further information, including the detailed list of required documents, can be found at

The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV‑L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade TV‑L 13 TV‑L.

Further information can be found at  (in German).

The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.

If the position is funded by third‑party funds, the employee has no teaching obligation.

The weekly working hours (75% part‑time) are based on the usual requirements for PhD positions, as described at

RUB is an international university. Campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides free courses for employees.

German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF).

The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. We favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented, they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates.

Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.

Prof. Dr. Claudius Zibrowius –

Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews cannot be reimbursed.

We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by . Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5214.

Online application: