Postdoctoral fellow in physics of life interested in exploring questions at the interface between physics and biology
We are looking for a talented, highly motivated and creative scientist who is interested in exploring questions at the interface between physics and biology. The project is part of the research project “Universal Growth Laws of Viruses of Bacteria”, led by Associate Professor Namiko Mitarai and financed by NERD Program, Novo Nordisk Foundation (for more information on the grant, see https://novonordiskfonden.dk/en/news/nerd-programme-provides-opportunities-for-creative-scientists-to-carry-out-original-research/). The project is focused on the viruses infecting bacteria, an ideal in-vivo model system to study the interplay between a virus and its host. At the same time, bacterial phages are drivers of microbial ecology, gene transfer and microbial evolution. We aim to explore the virus development upon infection as a dynamic and stochastic process exhibiting decisions. We are also actively studying the role of phages at the population scale and ecology scale and as pattern formation to macroscopic scale of epidemics as it spread in a 2 or 3 dimensional geometry. The strength of our research environment is the strong connection between experimental and theoretical research: We develop mathematical and computational models to mimic, suggest and perform experiments on these fascinating systems. We search for a creative and driven researcher who will thrive in this unique environment and ask new questions. The scientists with strong mathematical and computational skills in physics/complex systems who wants to extend their skills to biological experiments are strongly encouraged to apply. Alternatively, we seek a scientist with strong background in quantitative microbial experiments and single-cell experiments, who is enthusiastic about work environment with many theoretical ideas. Research experience in one or more of the following fields is beneficial for the position: statistical physics, complex systems, quantitative biology, systems biology, mathematical and computational modelling of biological systems, single-cell research on microbial systems.
The group is part of the Center for Models of Life (https://nbi.ku.dk/english/research/biocomplexity/cmol/) in the Biocomplexity section at the Niels Bohr Institute. We conduct research on the science of complex phenomena in physics and biology. We also has close collaborations with researchers in the biology department in University of Copenhagen. The environment is very exciting and allows fantastic scientific and social interactions with many talented researchers. The postdoc also has a chance of interacting with master and PhD students to develop supervision and teaching experiences.
The postdoc’s duties will include research within physics and biology as well as teaching. The post may also include performance of other duties.
Further information on the Department is linked at https://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/. Inquiries about the position can be made to Associate Professor Namiko Mitarai, Biocomplexity Section, The Niels Bohr Institute. E-mail: mitarai@nbi.ku.dk.
The position is open from 1 September 2022 or as soon as possible thereafter. The duration of the position two years with a possible extension for a third year.
The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.
Terms of employment
The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.
Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.
Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.
The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.
Please include
- Curriculum vitae
- Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
- Research plan – description of current and past research and your vision about how your experience further the research project described above
- Complete publication list
- Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers
- 1-3 reference letters
The deadline for applications is Sunday 26 June 2022 23:59 GMT +2.
After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.
You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.
Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.
Contact
Namiko MitaraiE-mail: mitarai@nbi.ku.dk
Info
Application deadline: 26-06-2022Employment start: 01-09-2022Working hours: Full timeDepartment/Location: Niels Bohr Institute