PhD Position in Digital Twins of Embryonic Development

ETH Zurich; Basel; On-site; CHF 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Interdisciplinary research environment

Conference travel support

Training and mentorship

Competitive ETH salary

Job summary

ETH Zurich's Computational Biology Group seeks a PhD student to develop mathematical and computational models of embryonic development in mice and humans.

You will integrate quantitative imaging data, run simulations, publish results, and contribute to open-source tools while collaborating with experimental partners.

The position offers an interdisciplinary, international environment and strong training opportunities with conference travel and teaching involvement.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in biology, mathematics, computer science or a related field.
• Strong foundation in developmental biology and data interpretation.
• Experience with mathematical modelling (ODEs, dynamical systems or stochastic methods).
• Proficient in MATLAB, Python, Julia or R.
• Excellent written and spoken English.

Responsibilities

• Develop data-based mechanistic models and simulations of tissue development.
• Integrate imaging data from collaborators into models.
• Publish results and present at international conferences.
• Contribute to open-source simulation tools and to teaching.

Skills

Math modelling

Programming

Education

Master's degree

Tools

MATLAB

Julia

Python

R

Job description

The Computational Biology Group (Prof Dagmar Iber) at D-BSSE develops digital twins of embryonic developmentusing image-based mechanistic modelling and simulation.

Project background

Organogenesis, the formation of organs during embryonic development, depends on tightly coordinated cell signalling, growth and mechanics. Our group combines quantitative imaging data with mathematical and computational models to understand how tissues self-organise and how this process goes wrong in disease. We work closely with experimental collaborators and develop open-source simulation tools.

Job description

The PhD position focuses on developing mathematical and computational models of mouse and human development. You will:

• develop data-based, mechanistic models and simulations of tissue development
• integrate quantitative imaging data from experimental collaborators into your models
• publish your results and present them at international conferences
• contribute to the group's open-source simulation tools and to teaching

Profile

We are looking for a self-motivated candidate who is enthusiastic about developing data-based mathematical models in developmental biology. The position suits someone with training in biology, mathematical modelling and scientific computing.

You should have:

• a Master's degree
• a solid understanding of developmental, cell and molecular biology, and the ability to interpret experimental and imaging data
• experience in mathematical modelling, for example with ordinary or partial differential equations, dynamical systems or stochastic models, gained through coursework, a thesis or a project
• programming experience in a language such as Matlab, Julia, Python or R
• good written and spoken English

During the PhD you may also work with finite element methods (e.g. COMSOL) and C++ software. Prior experience with these is not required.

We offer

• A PhD position in an interdisciplinary, international research environment at the interface of mathematics, computing and biology
• Close collaboration with leading experimental groups
• Excellent infrastructure and computing resources at ETH Zurich
• Support for your scientific development, including conference travel and training
• Competitive ETH doctoral salary and conditions

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising inscience and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education,cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledgeinto society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find ouruniversity to be a place that promotes independent thinking and anenvironment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe,yet forging connections all over the world, we work together todevelop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.