Doctoral student in theoretical physics with specialization in computational biology - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Subject description

Modeling, simulations and analysis of experimental data are indispensable tools in the exploration of biomolecular dynamics. We seek a PhD student who will develop methods for modelling and simulation of reaction-diffusion process in connection to experiments on cell-receptor binding dynamics. The work will be conducted in close collaboration with experimental partners.

Work duties

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties will also/can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

The student will numerically simulate reversible reaction-diffusion system and develop methods for tracking of fluorescently labeled molecules in such systems. The student will also introduce new methods for parameters estimation (of diffusion constants for the free and bound state and of association/dissociation rates) for experiments data. The parameter estimation procedure will involve modelling of molecular motion as well as photon statistics and camera response modelling. The work involves biophysical modelling, computations and applied mathematics.

Admission requirements

A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if the applicant:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Specific requirements

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in theoretical physics with specialization in computational biology if the applicant has a first-cycle exam in biomedicine, chemistry, physics, mathematics or computer science, and, in addition, at least 60 credits at the second-cycle level in bioinformatics, computational biology or closely related areas. Thus, the applicant needs to have at least 240 credits in total.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Strong background theoretical physics with experience in simulations and modeling of stochastic processes.
• Good programming experience.
• Practical experience of working with and analyzing experimental data.

Assessment criteria

Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study.
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills
4. Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, e.g. professional experience.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Terms of employment
Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).