Computational Postdoc or PhD student (m/f/d) in protein evolution and biomolecular condensates

The Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG) and the Center for Systems Biology Dresden (CSBD) are basic research institutes that foster collaborations between theorists 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.

The Toth-Petroczy lab is an interdisciplinary research group at MPI-CBG and CSBD that studies protein evolution. As a group of scientists with diverse backgrounds in computer science, bioinformatics, statistics, biophysics, chemistry, and biology, we are fascinated by intrinsically disordered protein regions (IDRs) and aim to understand their role in evolution and condensate formation. The field of biomolecular condensates is rapidly growing as more and more biological functions are associated with condensates, such as transcriptional control, RNA metabolism, and cellular organization. We are driven to answer questions such as: How many biological condensates are there? When did they evolve?

We are looking for a scientist (Postdoctoral research fellow or PhD student) to join our work in understanding the origins and evolution of intrinsically disordered regions and biomolecular condensates.

What is your role?

If you love…

• Coding and modeling
• Computational molecular evolution
• Interacting with interdisciplinary teams

…then join our lab and the dresdencondensates.com community!

Essential qualifications:

• PhD or MSc in bioinformatics, computer science, life sciences or related discipline

• Good command of the English language,

Desirable qualifications & soft skills:

1. Excellent conceptual, analytical, and presentational skills
2. Leadership personality and hands-on mentality
3. A high degree of responsibility, perseverance, and ownership
4. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
5. Ability to interact and work with interdisciplinary team members
6. Knowledge of life science data – proteomics, genomics
7. Knowledge of statistics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence

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 up to salary group E13 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 based upon mutual agreement.

Application:

Please send your complete application materials via our online application system stating 2023-PostDoc-ComputationalCondensates-2390 at https://recruitingapp-2443.umantis.com/Vacancies/550/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

The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. For initial inquiries, please contact group leader Agnes Tóth-Petroczy (toth-petroczy@mpi-cbg.de).