Research Assistant/Associate Computational Biology (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant/Research Associate position in the group of Professor Henrik Jönsson at the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University, to carry out fundamental research in the field of Computational Morphodynamics in plants.

The shoot apical meristem is a stem cell niche in plants instructive in determining the development of the above-ground part of the plant. Multiple factors are involved in the regulation of differentiation and growth of the cells in the tissue and computational models are required to quantitatively understand how these factors are integrated. The project will focus on computational modelling of gene regulatory networks, hormone signalling and transport and/or mechanics for predicting tissue shape and dynamics with the aim to better understand the maintenance of the stem cell niche, its plasticity to external cues, and its ability to regenerate. It will include development and use of quantitative analysis tools for 4D microscopy data to be used for model development and validation. The successful applicant should have or build a strong interest in solving problems related to plant development and they will have the opportunity to develop skills in advanced live microscopy and plant and molecular biology techniques.

Applicants must have or be close to obtaining a PhD in Computational Biology, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Bioengineering, Systems Biology or a related field. Proficiency in dynamical models of molecular regulation in cells, finite element models of mechanics of materials, or image analysis methods is required. Candidates are expected to have experience in the following areas: dynamical and/or finite element modelling. Software development in C++ and/or Python will be expected together with the development and use of tools for advanced quantitative analysis. Expertise in systems biology and/or theoretical biophysics would also be advantageous.

The successful applicant will be an excellent team player, solution oriented and self-motivated. We are looking for a person keen to work in a highly collaborative set-up and enthusiastic to join our diverse and interdisciplinary team. Solid communication skills are required to interact with group members and other researchers at SLCU with different scientific backgrounds. The post holder may be required to assist in the supervision of student projects, provide instructions to students and deliver seminars relating to their research area. Candidates should also demonstrate a history of science communication (e.g. presentations, outreach activities, teaching) and have a proven track record of scientific publications. The successful candidate will be fully involved in the fundamental research whilst also writing up their research work for presentation and publication.

Where a PhD has yet to be awarded the appointment will initially be made at Research Assistant level and amended to Research Associate upon the award of PhD.

More information about the Jönsson group is available here: https://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/research/jonsson-group

The Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment with a wide-range of family-friendly benefits and development opportunities. More about the Sainsbury Laboratory, generic further information for the role 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 for 2 years in the first instance.

Click the ‘Apply’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Scientific enquiries about the position should be directed to Professor Henrik Jönsson – henrik.jonsson@slcu.cam.ac.uk

Enquiries about the application process can be directed to hr@slcu.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PT37082 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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.

Further information
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