Postdoctoral Fellow: ML-Driven B-Cell Evolution Research

Harvard University; Harvard (IL); Hybrid; 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

Title Postdoctoral Fellow in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

School

School Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Department/Area

Department/Area Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

Position Description

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. Experience in applications of modern machine learning methods as well as in biological data analysis are needed for the position. The postdoctoral researcher will play a leading role in this research, including methods development, data analysis and research dissemination, working closely with the project PI (Dr. Desai).

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

Basic Qualifications

Candidates must have a PhD in physics, biology, or a related field by the time of appointment. The ideal candidate will also have demonstrated experience in machine learning and biological data analysis and a strong track record of scientific publications and conference presentations in related disciples.

Additional Qualifications

Special Instructions

Candidates should upload the following materials:

2. A 2–3 page cover letter outlining their research interests and experience

3. Names and contact information of three references.

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

Contact Information

Contact Email

Salary Range

$67,600-$80,000

Minimum Number of References Required

Minimum Number of References Required 3

Maximum Number of References Allowed

Maximum Number of References Allowed 3

Keywords

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Supplemental Questions

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