Post Doc: Learning interactions in collective cell migration

The Broedersz group (Theoretical physics of life) has an opening for Post Doc: Learning interactions in collective cell migration, a 2.5-year Post Doc position on the non-equilibrium statistical physics of collective cell migration.

• Onderzoeksgebouw VU
• Amsterdam
• 0.9 / 1
• Researcher / Postdoc
• Sluit op 31-12-2026
• Faculty of Science
• MSc

Your function

Our theory group is a worldwide leader in studying the statistical physics of living systems. We currently have an opening for an Vici funded 2.5-year Post Doc position. In this project, we seek to uncover the fundamental interaction rules that govern collective cell migration—a central biological process underlying development, immune responses, and cancer progression.

We are looking for a highly motivated Post Doc to strengthen our research team in an interactive and collaborative environment. Who are looking for candidates interested in combining non-equilibrium statistical physics, active matter physics, and statistical inference/AI to unravel how cell–cell interactions shape collective cell migration. A central goal of the project is to develop and apply data-driven theoretical frameworks that infer interaction rules directly from multicellular migration experiments. We therefore seek a candidate who is excited by rigorous statistical mechanics and data-driven modelling, and who is eager to use these approaches to understand how complex biological functions emerge from interactions between individual cells.

Your profile

• PhD Degree in Physics
• Preferably with a background in theoretical physics, statistical, soft or biological physics
• Experience with using inference/machine learning tools and basic programming is a plus

We realise that each individual brings a unique set of skills, expertise and mindset. Therefore we are happy to invite anyone who recognises themselves in the profile to apply, even if you do not meet all the requirements.

What do we offer?

We offer guidance and help so you can develop the skills and experience to become an independent scientist. In addition, we offer an intellectually challenging position in a socially engaged organisation. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. And that is valuable. So in return for your efforts, we offer you:

• a salary of minimum € 3.546,00 (Scale 10) and maximum € 5.538,00 (Scale 10) gross per month, on a full-time basis. This is based on UFO profile Researcher 4. The exact salary depends on your education and experience
• your initial contract is for one year (0.8 FTE minimum). Upon positive evaluation, extension is possible

We also offer you attractive fringe benefits and regulations. Some examples:

• A full-time 38-hour working week comes with a holiday leave entitlement of 232 hours per year. If you choose to work 40 hours, you have 96 extra holiday leave hours on an annual basis. For part-timers, this is calculated pro rata.
• 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• contribution to commuting expenses
• optional model for designing a personalized benefits package
• a wide range of sports facilities which staff may use at a modest charge

About us

The Broedersz group is part of the Section for Physics of Living Systems within the Physics department at the VU Amsterdam, a leading scientific institution in biophysics located in the vibrant and international city of Amsterdam. Our team is an inclusive and diverse environment, welcoming excellent students from all backgrounds. We offer a stimulating and collaborative environment in the physics of life. Phd students and Postdocs in our group have the opportunity to learn from the best scientists in the field, publish in high-impact journals, and present their work at international conferences.

Faculty of Science

Researchers and students at VU Amsterdam’s Faculty of Science tackle fundamental and complex scientific problems to help pave the way for a sustainable and healthy future. Our teaching and research have a strong experimentally technical, computational and interdisciplinary nature.

We are proud of our collegial working climate, characterised by committed staff, a pragmatic attitude and engagement in the larger whole.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam stands for values-driven education and research. Together we create a safe and respectful working and study climate, and an inspiring environment for education and research.

We are located on one physical campus, in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas business district, with excellent location and accessibility.