PhD in Theoretical Biophysics

About the Project

PhD in Theoretical Biophysics

The Universality in Biology Group led by Dr Chiu Fan Lee at Imperial College London, invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in theoretical biophysics, starting in Autumn 2026 or early 2027.

The fully funded position is open to candidates of all nationalities.

Our research seeks to uncover universal physical principles and emergent collective phenomena in living systems using tools from statistical mechanics, hydrodynamics, renormalization group theory, and computational and data-driven modelling. The group’s work is internationally recognised, with research articles and invited commentary published in leading journals including Nature, Science, Physical Review Letters, PNAS, and Nature Physics.

Projects span a broad spectrum of theoretical biophysics, including:

• Analytical renormalization group studies of biology-inspired hydrodynamic field theories and nonequilibrium universality classes
• Phase transitions and biomolecular condensation in cellular organisation
• Biophysical modelling of tissue mechanics, morphogenesis, and haematopoiesis
• Data-driven modelling approaches that integrate experimental data with physics-based frameworks to advance understanding of key biological processes and diseases

Research Environment

Imperial College London hosts a vibrant biological physics community, with regular journal clubs, invited seminars, and early career researcher symposia. The group interacts closely with researchers across the Departments of Bioengineering, Mathematics, Physics, and Life Sciences, as well as through the Physics of Life Network of Excellence .

Candidate Profile

We seek an outstanding and highly motivated candidate who has obtained, or is about to obtain, a First-Class or high 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in physics, mathematics, engineering, or a closely related quantitative discipline, and who is eager to apply rigorous theoretical methods to biological problems.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive research environment and strongly encourage applications from women and other groups underrepresented in theoretical physics and quantitative sciences. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and value diverse perspectives in advancing scientific discovery.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should email:

• A CV (including transcripts)
• A brief statement of research interests
• Contact details of two academic referees

to Dr Chiu Fan Lee c.lee@imperial.ac.uk with the subject line: PhD Application – Theoretical Biophysics

Applications will be reviewed from 13 April onwards and considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Funding Notes

The fully funded position is open to candidates of all nationalities.