PhD Position in Physics for MSCA-DN “MS-RADAM” (DC2)

About us

https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/409472

MS-RADAM (“MultiScale 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 radioprotection. These include the formation of DNA strand breaks by ionising radiation, DNA repair, radiosensitisation 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 radiobiology experiments with biomolecular and biological systems such as oligonucleotides, DNA origami, radiosensitising 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. [Add 1-2 sentence long description of the host organisation]

The DC2 research project, entitled “Electron dynamics in irradiated biomolecular systems”, will study radiation-induced electronic quantum effects in biomolecular systems (electronic excitation, ionisation, partial charges redistribution, electron transfer and attachment, relaxation of electronic excitations, bond cleavage, etc.) by time-dependent density functional theory interlinked with classical molecular dynamics. The modelling results 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.

Your profile

Eligibility criteria

(a) The candidate must not have already earned a doctoral degree.

(b) At the time of recruitment, the candidate must not have lived or conducted their main activities (work, study, etc.) in the country of recruitment for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to the recruitment date/start date of the activities. (c) The candidate must meet ALL admission requirements for the PhD program at the Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg. These requirements must be fulfilled at the start of the contract.

(d) Candidates of all nationalities and genders are welcome to apply.

(e) In line with MSCA requirements, candidates must be willing to undertake international mobility (four months) during the project implementation. This is a mandatory requirement.

Candidates must:

• hold a qualifying university degree (diploma, master of similar) in theoretical physics, computational physics, biophysics, physical chemistry, 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

Specific Requirements

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).

We offer

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

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