Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, invites applications for a position as postdoc of Physics-informed Model Discovery for Reaction-Diffusion Equations from the 1st of February, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. The position as postdoc is limited to a period of 2 years.

In this project, we want to tackle the challenge of model discovery for mathematical models in biology. We will consider the situation where the mathematical description abstracts from the microscopic level, leading to reaction-diffusion systems that are potentially nonlocal or heterogeneous in space. A combination of analytical properties and domain decomposition techniques will be included in machine learning algorithm for model discovery, providing hypotheses for scientific discussions to applied partners.
You will become part of a young research group, embedded in a larger mathematical modeling environment where we care for each other and are committed to ensuring that everyone thrives individually and in the group.

About the department. The department of Science and Environment is one of four departments at Roskilde University. The Department conducts basic and applied research within mathematics, medical biology, physics, molecular biology, environmental sciences, and chemistry. Bachelor and Master programs are offered within these areas. Roskilde University is located close to Copenhagen with good train connections (30 min. from CPH central station).

About the Mathematics at the department. Mathematics at Roskilde University is broad enough to guarantee a general research-based education in Applied Mathematics and Scientific Modelling but focused enough to ensure a strong international research profile with a strong emphasis on unique core activities of relevance for society. Mathematics has a strong focus on developing and applying mathematical models based on dynamical system theory within health and medicine as well as in green and clean technology.

The position is anchored in the section for Mathematics & Physics (IMFUFA) currently consisting of 18 professors/associate professors/assistant professors, as well as a varying number of PhD-students, Postdocs, technical staff, etc. The research focus within the mathematics group is mainly on mathematical modelling of biological and physical systems with an emphasis on applying and developing dynamical system theory. Read more about the section at https://ruc.dk/en/research-group/mathematics-and-physics-imfufa.

Responsibilities and tasks
The postdoc’s work will include research within machine learning for model discovery of reaction-diffusion models. In addition, a certain amount of teaching is also required. 

The ideal candidate is expected to

• develop model discovery algorithms based on neural networks for reaction diffusion equations in sparse data settings
• combine analytical tools for differential equations and machine learning in an effective way
• be dedicated to applied mathematics and scientific computing
• work independently in close collaboration with the supervisor
• be able to think out-of-the-box and help developing new ways to overcome research challenges
• mentor younger students within the focus of the research project or contribute to undergraduate teaching.

Qualifications
Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent within (applied) mathematics, scientific computing, computational engineering or similar. Qualifications within the following scientific areas are required:

• possess solid knowledge in dynamical system theory, PDE analysis or physics-informed machine learning,
• possess a strong interest in applied mathematics and scientific machine learning,
• should be proficient in programming e.g. in Python or Julia,
• have excellent written and oral English language communication skills, 
• highly organized with strong attention to details and a focus on quality results. 

The ideal candidate shall be enterprising and possess good communication skills, be visible and involved in the department’s daily activities, in addition to being willing to engage in disciplinary and interdisciplinary collaboration across the department.

Assessment
In the assessment of the candidates consideration will be given to;

• scientific production and research prospective,
• the ability to promote and utilize research results,
• experience in teaching and education, 
• ability to contribute to development of the department’s internal and external cooperation,
• ability to find creative ways of solving challenges, 
• eagerness to gain knowledge in new fields. 

Questions
For further information about the postdoc, please contact PI Associate Professor Cordula Reisch, email: cordular@ruc.dk or on tel. (+45) 4674-2141, or Head of Department Susanne Sørensen, email: susa@ruc.dk on tel. (+45) 4674-2111 / (+45) 6195-1197. 

Terms of employment
The employment is on full time (37 hours per week), and you will refer to Associate Professor Cordula Reisch. 

The position will be filled according to the Agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC) and Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities.  

Application procedure 
After the deadline for applications the Dean will shortlist applicants for assessment with assistance from the recruitment committee including the chairperson of the assessment committee.

Shortly after the application deadline all applicants will be notified whether or not their application has been selected for assessment.

The shortlisted applicants will be informed about the composition of the assessment committee, and each applicant will be given the opportunity to comment on the composition of the committee and - later on - their assessment.

Once the recruitment process is completed, all applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application.

Application 
To apply for the position go to www.ruc.dk/en/job/ 

Only applications in English are accepted.

Applications must include:

1. Cover letter
2. CV
3. Documentation of education
4. A complete list of publications
5. A maximum of 5 relevant scientific works that you want included in the assessment
   If any of the publications that you want included in the assessment are the result of a joint effort, the extent and the nature of your contribution to each individual work must then be clarified in a co-author statement (find template here).
6. If duties include teaching: Teaching portfolio (read more about teaching portfolio at Roskilde University here)

Please submit your application no later than 15th of December 2025. 

Material received after this date will not be taken into consideration. 

Apply here

Roskilde University wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.