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Research Associate (Part Time, Fixed Term)


Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 year in the first instance.

We are looking for a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join our research group and work on developing and applying machine learning approaches to model proteins and their behaviour. The PDRA will be responsible for supporting the development of novel methods and using them to gain new insights into protein behaviour and interactions. This will be accomplished by utilising cutting-edge machine learning, computational biophysics and bioinformatics approaches. This role is integral to the ERC Consolidator project led by Professor Tuomas Knowles focuses on pioneering digital protein biophysics.

Proteins are the fundamental building blocks of the human body. Prof. Knowles' research group has developed a wide range of experimental and computational methods to better understand and predict protein behaviour. A key focus has been on developing approaches that can probe biological systems in a high-throughput manner. The PDRA's role will involve utilising experimental data to gain new insights into biomolecular behaviour and their interactions. This goal encompasses developing new data analysis approaches for high-throughput single molecule measurements, building new machine learning models based on the generated data to augment experimental measurements and developing of biophysics-augmented machine learning models for designing proteins and biomolecules with desired properties and behaviour.

The successful candidate will have:

  • PhD in biophysics or bioinformatics, or in machine learning with a scientific focus
  • Strong analytical skills and proficiency in quantitative analysis of large datasets
  • Extensive expertise in either using state-of-the-art machine learning approaches (active learning, representation learning etc.) or employing computational chemistry and bioinformatics approaches for modelling biomolecular and protein behaviour
  • Demonstrated research leadership, as demonstrated by a strong publication record across experimental and computational sciences or other types of collaborative projects
  • Specific examples of exceptional problem-solving abilities and instances demonstrating the capability to work independently as well as within a team.
  • Specific examples showcasing excellent communication skills and the ability to effectively collaborate within an interdisciplinary research team.

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

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV), a covering letter and include a 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.

Inquiries about this post should be addressed to Echo Williamson jw825@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference MA43518 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The Department holds an Athena SWAN silver award for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine.

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

Apply online