PhD student position (f/m/d) (Ref. 26/05)

The Weierstrass Institute for Applied Analysis and Stochastic (WIAS) is an institute of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. (FVB). The FVB comprises seven non‑university research institutes in Berlin which are funded by the federal and state governments. The research institutes belong to the Leibniz Association.

PhD student position (f/m/d)

(Ref. 26/05)

In the Weierstrass Group “Energy-variational Methods for Innovative Materials” (Head: PD Dr. Robert Lasarzik) to be filled at the earliest possible date. This position offers the opportunity for independent scientific research aimed at advancing your own academic qualifications.

The position is based in the Weierstrass Group for Energy‑Variational Methods for Innovative Materials, part of the flexible research platforms at WIAS. The research aims to derive qualitative and quantitative insights into material sciences through mathematical analysis.

Key areas of focus

• Modeling materials and production processes using partial differential equations (PDEs)
• Mathematical investigation of these models
• Numerical simulation and mathematical optimization
• Focus on nonlinear PDEs in materials science, especially for viscoelastic materials with complex interfaces – such as those in phase transitions, growth processes, metal processing, and additive manufacturing.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct mathematical analysis of nonlinear PDEs in materials science.
• Collaborate with experimental project partners.
• Prepare and publish research findings in peer‑reviewed scientific journals.
• Present results at national and international conferences.

Qualifications

Candidates with a master’s degree in mathematics or a closely related field with a strong background in at least one of the following fields: analysis of partial differential equations, calculus of variations, functional analysis. Prior knowledge in mathematical fluid mechanics, numerical analysis, or nonlinear optimization is beneficial.

What we offer

• Close mentorship: the PhD student will receive responsible and careful mentorship by both principal investigators, who emphasize fostering a healthy mentor‑mentee relationship.
• WIAS Berlin is a premier research institution known for its strength in partial differential equations, mathematical modeling, nonlinear optimization, and applied mathematics in general.
• A certified (Audit berufundfamilie) family‑friendly work environment.
• Berlin is one of the most culture‑rich and diverse international cities in the world. It offers endless opportunities to enjoy life outside work, while being very affordable compared to other major cities. Neither the job nor living in Berlin requires German language (although WIAS offers free German courses). We highly welcome international applications. Scientifically, Berlin offers a rich landscape with numerous opportunities for research, as well a job prospects in academia and industry.

The appointment is limited to three years. The reduced work schedule is 29.25 hours per week, and the salary is according to the German TVöD Bund scale.

Equal Opportunity

The Weierstrass Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We explicitly encourage female researchers to apply for the offered position. Among equally qualified applicants, disabled candidates will be given preference.

Please direct scientific queries to Dr. Robert Lasarzik ( ).