Research Engineer for Applied Mathematics (m/f/d)

22/12/2023

Research Engineers joining this Algebraic systems biology group led by Heather Harrington will implement mathematical, statistical and machine learning algorithms and create software used to solve open problems in the life sciences.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

We collaborate with experimental groups within the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG), enabling and encouraging interactions with biologists for maximal scientific impact. We are committed to curiosity-driven fundamental research, and to transferring concepts and structures from mathematics into biological sciences. Our projects use computational algebraic geometry and topology, multi-linear algebra, differential equations, machine learning, statistics and stochastic modelling. The institute houses core facilities, ranging from experimental equipment to scientific computing support, which support research groups.
The MPI-CBG and the Center for Systems Biology Dresden (CSBD) are basic research institutes that foster collaborations between theorists, computational scientists and experimentalists. Their research program spans across scales from molecular assemblies to the formation of cells, tissues, and organisms. Currently, about 500 employees work at the institute, representing over 50 nations and a wide range of scientific expertise. As an employer, MPI-CBG offers an environment that fosters open communication and collaboration; an environment with equal opportunities and support for families. The official language of the institute is English.
What is your role?
You’ll be part of a research team pushing the boundaries of mathematics and machine learning to develop methods for analysing multiscale biological data. As a Research Engineer, you will collaborate with domain specialists within the team to build computational systems that facilitate varied research questions. Your role will primarily involve reading specialised research documents and collaborating with an interdisciplinary team to design, develop and implement software packages and algorithms to analyse models and/or data on HPC clusters. This position will require an openness to new research fields and a strong capacity for problem conceptualisation and solving.
Successful candidates will hold the following skills and experience:

• MSc, or PhD/DPhil in computer science, mathematics or software engineering
• 3+ years of professional experience with algorithm design and implementation
• Expertise in Python/C++/Ruby/Julia/Bash
• Understanding of data structures and algorithms, workflow management and containerization (eg. Docker). Knowledge of data/database structures and querying methods
• Knowledge of statistics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence
• Strong communication skills, and an ability to interact and work with interdisciplinary team members (we look for independence of thought alongside an openness to unfamiliar ideas)
• Proficiency with a Linux/Unix-based operating system
• Proficiency with version control using Git

The following would also be an advantage:

• Prior experience collaborating with researchers: excellent conceptual, analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills
• Familiarity with mathematical and life sciences data types/structures
• Interest in computational mathematical algorithms and data to search for interesting patterns alongside domain specialists
• Interest in computational mathematical programs
• Experience visualizing data using well-known libraries and/or platforms (matplotlib/plotly/ggplot2).

Our offer:

• We offer a diversified job in a young, scientifically oriented, international team in one of the most renowned research institutions worldwide
• Salary and social benefits corresponding to qualification and experience according to TVöD Bund (German civil service tariff)
• Attractive pension plan via VBL (Federal and State Government Employees' Retirement Fund)
• Discounted job ticket (VVO) and good public transport connections
• Support for a positive work-life balance, including assistance with family and childcare matters

The position is available immediately. The initial contract is for 2 years with the possibility of extension.
Application:
Please send your complete application materials via our online application system stating 2023-Research Engineer-1120 at
https://recruitingapp-2443.umantis.com/Vacancies/576/Application/CheckLogin/2?lang=eng.
The following materials should be included:

• Cover letter indicating motivation to apply for the position
• CV
• Academic and professional certificates
• Contact details of 2 approachable professional references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For initial inquiries, please contact Brian von Rueden, Head of Human Resources ([email protected]).

• The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, age, and other components of identity.
• The Max Planck Society specifically aims to increase the proportion of women in the areas in which they are underrepresented. We therefore explicitly invite women to apply.
• The Max Planck Society is further committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.
• The Max Planck Society supports the compatibility of family and career and is certified according to the "berufundfamilie" (“job and family”) audit.
• When you submit a job application to MPI-CBG, you are transmitting personal data. Please refer to our privacy notice for information on how we collect and process personal data in accordance with Art. 13 of the Datenschutz-Grundverordnung. By submitting your application you confirm that you have taken note of the information in our privacy notice.