We invite applications for a PhD position within the project Olfactorial Perceptronics (https://perceptronics.de) funded by the Volkswagen foundation. The position is embedded in the Chair of Physical and Theoretical Chemistry (Prof. Dr. Stefanie Gräfe) at the Friedrich Schiller University Jena.

The focus of the PhD project is establishing links between (complex) molecular fingerprints and (artificial and human) odor perception using machine learning techniques in close collaboration with the interdisciplinary partners in the project and our expanding national and international network of research institutes and industrial companies. It may also entail the investigation of transduction principles in molecular communication and sensing.

Applicants with a (prospective) master’s degree from all disciplines are welcome, who have a strong interest in theoretical chemistry/physics, nanoscience or data science. A solid command of programming languages (in particular Python), good basic knowledge of theoretical chemistry and nano-scale physics is preferable, as well as hands-on experience in machine learning. Solid English skills (both written and oral) are mandatory, knowledge of (or the willingness to learn) German is a plus.

The position is initially limited to 3 years with the possibility of an extension if appropriate. Salary will be paid at the TV-L E13 67% level, which corresponds to a regular work contract. Funding for attending international conferences and further education programs is available.

Please send your detailed written application (one PDF file), stating the vacancy ID 441/2022 as a subject, to [email protected]. Evaluation of applications will commence immediately and will continue until the position is filled.