You can apply for these projects during the next registration period (project start: Winter/Spring 2026–2027). The list of projects is constantly being updated.
Start im Sommersemester 2026
Start in winter semester 25/26
Slots: 1
Completion within: 6 months
Hours per week: 6 h
Supervisor: Yannick Witzky
Location: Campus Mainz
Primary language: German
Description:
Complementary to the work of our experimentalists in biology, we investigate the liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of different proteins using coarse-grained molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. To create a phase diagram, many simulations with varying starting parameters are carried out and evaluated according to the same scheme. Additional features are to be added to the existing framework for this purpose.
Role of the students:
The students implement new analysis features and thus gain an insight into research using biophysical simulations, as well as the development of research software using test-driven development.
Necessary qualifications:
Basic knowledge of statistical physics, programming and willingness to familiarize yourself with an interdisciplinary field are required. Knowledge of MD simulations, the Julia programming language, good English skills, Git and statistics are advantageous.
Slots: 1
Completion within: 9 months
Hours per week: 4 h
Supervisor: Lucia Baltz
Location: Campus Mainz
Primary language: German
Description:
In collaboration with our experimental partner at IMB, we study protein granules, a molecular condensate involved in epigenetic inheritance. To study their formation, we use molecular dynamics simulations and analyze protein interaction patterns. These help us investigate the underlying biophysical mechanism.
Role of the students:
This QUEST project offers a first perspective on biophysical research on proteins that play a role in epigenetic inheritance. We perform molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on MOGON2, extracting insights by analyzing contact patterns. You can choose your focus to work with us on advancing our Python workflow: (a) pattern analysis through frequent item set mining or simple ML/generative models, (b) performance optimization via benchmarking and test development, or (c) molecular system exploration through sequence mutations.
Necessary qualifications:
Curiosity to support protein research through simulations and method development is helpful. You should be interested in collaborating with a PhD student in an interdisciplinary lab. A first experience with Python is helpful or at least you should bring high motivation to develop programming skills. Some interest in gaining experience with High-Performance Computing (HPC) systems is recommended.
Slots: 1
Completion within: 6 months
Hours per week: 6 h
Supervisor: Dr. Le Qiao
Location: Campus Mainz
Primary language: English
Description:
Two-dimensional self-assembled colloidal particle monolayers have wide-ranging applications in nanotechnology. The phase behavior of such monolayers is predominantly influenced by inter-particle interactions. For example, in a 2D monolayer, an increase in particle diameter can induce phase transitions from a liquid-like state to a hexatic phase and ultimately to a crystalline solid phase. This project aims to give students basic understanding of the physics governing the self-assembly process and to provide hands-on experience with advanced tools for analyzing the morphology of two-dimensional colloidal assemblies.
Role of the students:
The student will perform particle-based simulations using molecular dynamics (MD) software to explore the morphology of self-assembled structures by tuning inter-particle interactions. They will study the physics of self-assembly and analyze phase morphology using techniques such as 2D Fourier transforms, Delaunay triangulation, order parameters, and correlation functions.
Necessary qualifications:
The ideal candidate is motivated, enthusiastic, and committed to learning new tools and techniques. A basic knowledge of programming languages such as Python or C/C++ is essential. Preference will be given to students with a background in physics, mathematics, or computational physics. Proficiency in English is required for communication.
That’s what our QUEST alumni says:
Slots: 1-3
Completion within: 9 months
Hours per week: 4 h
Supervisor: Dr. Sebastian Wurster, Niklas Litzenberger
Location: Campus Mainz
Primary language: German
Description:
The school mathematics pre‑semester course for biology often receives criticism from the participants. The main criticism is that the courses usually do not start with the mathematical basics that the students already know. The goal of the project is to evaluate the current state of the course.
Role of the students:
The role of the students is to mainly evaluate the worksheets they work on during the course. They should identify where the current problems are and propose changes to the worksheets to better meet the students’ needs.
Necessary qualifications:
A good understanding of the Mathematics content of the first semester of Biology is required. This includes multi-dimensional analysis, fundamental linear algebra, basics differential equations, systems of equations with complex solutions and Statistics (standard deviation and mean value).
