Research Associate in Physical Biology - Mitotic Mechanisms

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Family-friendly benefits

Development opportunities

Job summary

Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University invites applications for a Post-doctoral Research Associate position in the Nedelec group to study chromosome segregation and spindle assembly using mathematical models and simulations.

The successful candidate will hold a PhD in a related field, possess a strong publication record and experience in computational biology or theoretical biophysics; opportunities include machine learning, numerical simulations, and mentoring students.

Qualifications

• PhD in computational biology, physics, applied mathematics, computer science or related field.
• Proven publication record.
• Experience modelling biological systems or theoretical biophysics.

Skills

Publication record

Biological modelling

Mathematical modelling

Education

PhD in computational biology or related field

Tools

Machine learning

Numerical simulations

Job description

Applications are invited for a Post-doctoral Research Associate position in the group of Dr. Francois Nedelec at the Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University (SLCU). This call is open to carry out fundamental research in the field of physical biology, specifically studying mitotic spindle assembly and chromosome segregation. This post is funded by a prestigious ERC Synergy project BioMecaNet in collaboration with the experimental groups of Andrea Musacchio (MPI of Molecular Physiology, Dortmund, DE) and Thomas Surrey (CRG, Barcelona, SP).

The project's primary focus is the comprehensive analysis of the fundamental mechanisms underlying chromosome segregation, employing advanced mathematical models and computer simulations. The research will concentrate on a thorough investigation into the mechanics of the cytoskeleton, particularly in relation to the formation of a functional bipolar mitotic spindle.

A central goal of the project is to integrate filament mechanics and cellular chemistry into the modeling process, with a specific aim to develop physically accurate simulations of chromosome bi-orientation and segregation.

Applicants must have or be close to obtaining a PhD in computational biology, physics, applied mathematics, computer science or related field and have a proven track record of scientific publication. Prior experience in modelling of biological systems, or expertise in systems biology and/or theoretical biophysics, in general, would be advantageous. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to develop skills in mathematical modelling, advanced numerical simulations and machine learning.

Fully involved in the basic research in these areas whilst also writing up their research work for presentation and publication, the post holder will have the opportunity to assist in the supervision of student projects, and to engage in teaching if desired. Good and effective communication skills are essential (e.g. presentations, outreach activities).

The Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment with a wide range of family-friendly benefits and development opportunities. More about the Sainsbury Laboratory and details of what the University offers to employees, can be found at: http://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 June 2028.

Scientific enquiries apart from the formal application should be directed to Dr Francois Nedelec at [e-mail]

For questions regarding the application process, please email [e-mail]

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.