PhD Position in Physics Msca-Dn “Ms-Radam” (DC

About us

MS‑RADAM (“Multi Scale phenomena in RAdiation DAMage”) is a European Doctoral Network project funded by the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions (MSCA) programme. The project brings together leading academic and industrial partners from eight European countries (Germany, France, United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Sweden, Denmark and Georgia) to train a new generation of interdisciplinary researchers.

MS‑RADAM aims to advance the understanding of key radiation‑induced biodamage phenomena at the nano‑ and larger scales, with applications in particle therapy, radiotherapy, and radio protection. These include the formation of DNA strand breaks by ionising radiation, DNA repair, radio sensitisation by metal nanoparticles, cell survival and radioresistance.

The MS‑RADAM research programme combines state‑of‑the‑art computational multiscale modelling (using DFT/TDDFT methods, collision theory, molecular dynamics, stochastic dynamics, Monte Carlo and analytical methods) and its thorough validation using advanced experimental techniques (such as mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, radiochemistry and radio biology experiments with biomolecular and biological systems such as oligonucleotides, DNA origami, radio sensitising nanoparticles, living cells and multicellular targets).

MS‑RADAM invites applications for a 36‑month, full‑time, fixed‑term position as a Doctoral Candidate (DC). The successful candidate will be employed by Carl von Ossietzky University in Oldenburg, Germany and enrolled in its PhD programme. The DC3 research project, entitled “Reactive force fields for radiation chemistry”, will develop a quantitative description of molecular biological media (particularly, quantifying their chemical composition) under the action of ionising radiation using the Reactive Molecular Dynamics (RMD) methodology.

The results of the calculations will be used in multiscale modelling simulations of other DCs and will be validated through close collaboration with experimental partners within the MS‑RADAM network.

In addition to specialised scientific training, the position offers extensive international mobility, secondments to partner organisations, and training in transferable skills such as research management, communication, and career development.

• hold a qualifying university degree (diploma, master of similar) in physics, physical chemistry / chemical physics, or a related field
• have proven experience of using software tools for computer simulations (e.g. quantum chemistry calculations, molecular dynamics, Monte Carlo simulations, etc.)
• be highly motivated to conduct research using theoretical and computational physics methods
• be available to start on 01.07.2026
• have excellent English language skills (both spoken and written)
• be able to travel internationally on a regular basis, e.g. to attend regular project meetings, conferences and training activities
• be able to work in an international environment, be highly motivated and reliable, be able to meet strict deadlines

To be eligible for this position, candidates must comply with the MSCA mobility rule: you must NOT have lived or worked in Germany for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately prior to the recruitment date (01.07.2026).

Annual Salary: within the range of the EU MSCA Doctoral Network programmes. Monthly Mobility Supplement and Monthly Family Allowance (if eligible): according to the MSCA Doctoral Network programme rules.

The University of Oldenburg is dedicated to increasing 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.