Postdoctoral Training Fellow in Computational Biology – Fröhlich lab

Contact term: This is a full-time, fixed term (4 years) position on Crick terms and conditions of employment

The Research Group

The Fröhlich lab develops models to describe the dynamic behaviour of biological systems combining techniques from mathematical modelling and machine learning. We develop computational tools to build and train these models on experimental data and apply these tools to understand the fundamental rules that govern how cells respond to external perturbations. In the past, applications have focused signaling models for drug sensitivity prediction in a cancer biology context, but we are always interested in expanding this to other fields, including developmental biology, immunology, and protein design. More details about the group and our research interests can be found on the lab’s webpage www.frohlichlab.com

The successful candidate will join a growing, multi-disciplinary team of scientist with the opportunity to contribute own ideas and help shape the research profile of the lab. Research projects will be supported by a vibrant, multi-disciplinary scientific community at the Crick, with ample opportunities for internal and external collaborations. Moreover, the candidate will have access to state-of-the-art core facilities at the Crick, including the High-Performance-Computing platform, as well as structured career development and rich networking opportunities.

The Role

Several research directions are being pursued and the successful candidate will have the freedom to develop and undertake their own independent research projects within the scope of the lab’s interests. Topics include development of hybrid models that use machine learning to contextualize ordinary differential equation (ODE) models from (single-cell) omics and imaging data; and the development of neural-network-based coarse-graining of protein-structure-based models. Application of these models include drug sensitivity prediction, protein design and other cell fate decisions

The post holder will be responsible for:

• Leading and developing specific research projects
• Developing and maintaining computational tools
• Applying methods to biological data and interpreting results
• Collaborating with national and international partners
• Presenting work at lab meetings as well as national and international meetings
• Publishing scientific results
• Assisting in training graduate students and other members of the laboratory

Key experience and competencies

The post holder should embody and demonstrate our core Crick values:

Bold; Open; Collegial, in addition to the following:

Essential

• PhD in a relevant field or in the final stages of PhD submission
• Good knowledge and experience in coding (Python/Julia/C or similar languages)
• Technical expertise in mathematical modelling and/or machine learning
• An interest in applying computational methods to biological problems
• A demonstrated ability to generate and pursue independent research ideas
• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal as evidenced by publications, preprints and/or conference presentations
• Cross-disciplinary mindset, collaborative attitude, and teamwork experience
• Dedication to reproducible research and open science

Desirable

• Foundational knowledge in Structural Biology, Biochemistry and/or Systems Biology
• Foundational knowledge in Mathematics, Statistics and/or Data Science
• Background in numerical methods for optimization and solving differential equation models.
• Familiarity with modern software development practices and high-performance computing
• Good command of a machine learning framework (jax/pytorch or similar)
• Experience working in interdisciplinary environments

Note that the ideal candidate is not expected to have all desirable skills, but this listing is intended to give you some guidance of what experiences to highlight in your cover letter.

About Us

At the Crick, we conduct research at the forefront of biomedical research. We combine rigour with an open and collaborative culture, and are outward-looking, reflecting our status as a partnership of six organisations aiming to pool knowledge, ideas and resources.

We have a wide research portfolio with no divisions or departments, bringing biomedical researchers together with clinicians, physical scientists and applied scientists from our pharmaceutical partners.

We aim to attract the most talented researchers and support them to tackle innovative research questions. Our science technology platforms provide our researchers with access to state-of-the-art technology and expertise.

We provide an excellent learning environment with dedicated education programmes in public engagement with science, education and personal development, and a postdoc training programme that prepares scientists for leadership roles in science.

• If you are interested in applying for this role, please apply via our website.
• All offers of employment are subject to successful security screening and continuous eligibility to work in the United Kingdom.
• If you require a visa to work in the UK we will help support your application should you be successful

This job advert will remain open to new applications until a suitable candidate has been identified. Please submit your application at the earliest availability to ensure its receipt.