Research Associate in Computer Simulations of Biomolecular Phase Separation (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 24 months in the first instance.

Applications are invited for a full-time postdoctoral position to develop computational approaches to study the physical determinants of liquid-liquid phase separation of proteins and chromatin. The post is available for a fixed-term period of 24 months starting on 1 June 2024. The position allows considerable flexibility in research topics within the main theme. Guided by experimental observations and physicochemical information, the Collepardo group develops theoretical methods and multiscale computational models to investigate physical and molecular mechanisms that regulate the organization of biomolecules, including chromatin, inside cells (Joseph et al. Nat Comp Scie, 2022; Farr et al., Nat Comms, 2021; Krainer/Welsh/Joseph, Nat Comms, 2021; Espinosa et al. PNAS 2020; Sridhar et al., PNAS, 2020).

The successful candidate will join the research group of Prof. Rosana Collepardo (collepardolab.org) based at the Chemistry Department, University of Cambridge.

The successful candidate will have strong experience in modelling and simulations of biomolecular condensates and will hold (or be about to obtain) a PhD/DPhil in chemistry, or a closely related field, with a strong interest in biological systems.

The proposed research project is particularly suitable for candidates who have extensive demonstrable experience with LAMMPS and/or OpenMM. Experience in developing coarse-grained models, polymer models, and/or in developing and applying Molecular Dynamics and/or Monte Carlo simulations to biomolecular systems or condensed matter systems is also required.

The role holder responsibilities will include carrying out their research in computer simulations and statistical mechanics of biomolecular liquid-liquid phase separation. Related tasks will include collaborating in the preparation of reports and journal articles, presenting papers at conferences and workshops, representing the group at meetings and seminars, and supervision of graduate students.

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Appointment at the Research Associate level is dependent on the award of a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at the Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the award of the PhD has been confirmed.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a covering letter and publications list in the upload section of the online application. If you upload any additional documents that have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

For queries relating to your application or the application process, please contact Prof. Rosana Collepardo [email protected]

Please quote reference MA41337 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 Department holds an Athena SWAN silver award for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine.

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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