Postdoctoral Fellow in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

Harvard University; Harvard (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Harvard University is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology. This role focuses on using machine learning to infer sequence-function landscapes, particularly in B-cell receptor evolution. Candidates should hold a PhD in a related field and possess strong expertise in data analysis and machine learning. The appointment is for one year, with a possibility of renewal. Candidates must submit a cover letter and provide three references.

Qualifications

• PhD required by appointment time.
• Experience in machine learning and biological data analysis.
• Strong publication and conference presentation track record.

Responsibilities

• Lead methods development and data analysis.
• Conduct research dissemination.
• Work closely with project PI.

Skills

Machine learning

Biological data analysis

Scientific publications

Education

PhD in physics, biology, or related field

Job description

Postdoctoral Fellow in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

We seek a postdoctoral research associate to work with Professor Michael Desai at Harvard University on projects involving inferring sequence-function landscapes, using a combination of empirical data and ML methods (e.g., transformer models). One focus of this work will be on B‑cell receptor evolution. The candidate will play a leading role in methods development, data analysis, and research dissemination, working closely with the project PI.

The appointment is for one year with a possibility of renewal based on performance.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in physics, biology, or a related field by the time of appointment.
• Demonstrated experience in machine learning and biological data analysis.
• Strong track record of scientific publications and conference presentations in related disciplines.

Special Instructions

• Submit a 2–3 page cover letter outlining research interests and experience.
• Provide names and contact information of three references.

Review of applications will begin on April 1, 2026, with an expected start date of May 1, 2026.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

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