The Department of Information Systems at the University of Münster, together with the European Research Center for Information Systems (ERCIS), forms an internationally recognized network of researchers dedicated to the design and application of information systems. The Chair of Information Systems and Supply Chain Management (Prof. Dr.-Ing. Bernd Hellingrath) is a distinguished research group that continuously generates new insights into the use of digital technologies in business and society. The team maintains a close exchange with both industry practitioners and the scientific community, with research spanning crisis management, supply chain digitalization, and the integration of enterprises into supply chains—findings regularly published in leading academic journals. Current research of the chair focuses on the application of artificial intelligence methods to supply chain planning and control, crisis management, and the modeling of epidemics using agent-based systems.
The Chair of Information Systems & Supply Chain Management of the University of Münster, Germany, is seeking to fill the position of a
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Information Systems & Supply Chain Management (Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in, salary level E 13 TV-L)
for the BMBF-funded research project ADAPTI-M at the earliest possible date. We are offering a fixedterm full-time position (100%) until 29 February 2028. An extension within the framework of legal possibilities of up to one year is planned, in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Center for Mathematical Modeling of Infectious Disease Dynamics (IMMIDD) at the University of Münster, of which our chair is a founding member. The ADAPTI-M project (“Next-Generation Modeling: Adaptive System to Support Decision-Making in Public Health During Respiratory Pandemic Events”) builds on the German Epidemic Microsimulation System (GEMS), developed as part of the preceding OptimAgent project. The central goal is the development of an innovative agent-based modeling system for pandemic preparedness and management. At its core is the creation of an adaptive, AI-driven decision support tool for public health authorities, enabling systematic assessment and optimization of health interventions in the context of infectious diseases. Key objectives include automated calibration of complex simulation models using data-driven and machine learning techniques, algorithmic optimization of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), and the development of workflows to translate simulation results into actionable, relevant guidance for public health decision-makers. The model accounts for both heterogeneous behavioral and sociodemographic characteristics of the population and the temporal dynamics of pathogens, in order to realistically capture the complexity and uncertainty of pandemic scenarios.
Your tasks:
- Steering and co-designing the integration of dynamic model extensions within the existing agentbased simulation framework, GEMS
- Coupling the simulation model with a generic learning framework to enable AI-based parameterization and automation
- Leading the development of automated algorithms for the optimization of public health interventions across multiple project partners
- Coordinating scientific activities within the project -
- Validating and ensuring the quality of the employed modeling techniques
- Disseminating and communicating project outcomes
- Contributing to cross-project, interdisciplinary initiatives
- Conducting independent scholarly work with creative freedom to further develop an innovative modeling platform
Our expectations:
- A completed doctoral degree in business, information systems, computer science, industrial engineering, mathematics, or a related field is required
- A strong motivation to achieve ambitious goals within a high-performing team is desired
- Sound knowledge and experience in epidemic modeling, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and a keen interest in advancing selected scientific methods and exploring new research domains are advantageous
- Very good command of English, both written and spoken, is essential
- You will fit into our team if you demonstrate communicative, organizational, and collaborative competences as well as the ability to work independently and efficiently
Advantages for you:
- Attractive professional development opportunities in a high-performing and collegial team environment
- Inspiring collaborations with research institutions across Europe and beyond
- Membership in a rich international network, including ERCIS and IMMIDD
- Cooperation with highly qualified, motivated colleagues from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds
- Flexible working arrangements, including options for remote work, supported by a range of working time models
- Family support services to help balance career and family responsibilities, including childcare and eldercare assistance
- Comprehensive personal and professional development programs tailored to your individual needs
- An extensive range of health, sports, and wellness offerings for your work-life balance, from Aikido to Zumba - Numerous benefits associated with public sector employment, including attractive pension schemes (VBL), annual bonus payments, and highly secure workplace conditions
The University of Münster strongly supports equal opportunity and diversity. We welcome all applicants regardless of sex, nationality, ethnic or social background, religion or worldview, disability, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. We are committed to creating family-friendly working conditions. Part-time options are generally available.
We actively encourage applications by women. Women with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered unless these are outweighed by reasons which necessitate the selection of another candidate.
For questions regarding the content of the position, please contact Prof. Dr.-Ing. Bernd Hellingrath. For formal inquiries, please contact the managing director Dr. Adam Widera (adam.widera@wi.uni-muenster.de, +49 (251) 83-38011).
Are you interested? Then we look forward to receiving your application by 2026-03-30 at
Universität Münster
Institut für Wirtschaftsinformatik
Lehrstuhl für Wirtschaftsinformatik und Logistik
Prof. Dr-Ing. Bernd Hellingrath
Leonardo-Campus 3
48149 Münster
Please send your application exclusively as a PDF to (bernd.hellingrath@wi.uni-muenster.de). Please note that we cannot consider other file formats.
Reference number: 2026_02_22
