Research Associate in Whole-Cell Modelling and Machine Learning

The role

Whole-cell models (WCMs), defined as the ultimate goal of systems biology and a grand challenge of the 21st century, aim at providing mathematical and mechanistic descriptions of entire cells, integrating the known function(s) and dynamics of every gene, gene product, molecule and metabolite. As such, they differ from more traditional models which focus explicitly on a subset of cellular processes (e.g., metabolic reactions) and promise to fully predict phenotypes from genotypes. We aim at testing, for the first time, the use of the Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) WCM to predict the behaviour of integrated gene networks. Simulated data will be compared with experimental data (in cell and in cell-free extracts), generated by collaborators at Imperial College London. This post is funded by AI-4-EB, a programme at Imperial College London which aims at promoting work at the interface of Artificial Intelligence and Engineering Biology; the project will involve collaborations with Imperial College London, and the Universities of Newcastle and Oxford.

What will you be doing?

The appointed RA will: modify the model to enable gene knock-in modelling; perform simulations upon integration of gene networks in the model; support the establishment of a competition to compare simulations of the WCM with experimental data generated at Imperial College by collaborators; set up machine learning pipelines which enable such comparison. They will also support organization of a workshop at the end of the competition.

You should apply if

You should apply if you hold, or are studying towards, a PhD in engineering, mathematics, computer science or a related discipline, and if you have:

• Expertise with whole-cell modelling
• Expertise in machine learning
• A track record of research productivity at a level that is appropriate for your current career stage
• Readiness and ability to collaborate and to work within a team
• Analytical thinking and critical problem-solving skills
• Fluency in English
• Polite and courteous approach when dealing with others
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

It would be desirable to also have expertise in:

• Synthetic biology
• Multidisciplinary research.

We welcome applications from all members of our community and are particularly encouraging those from diverse groups, such as members of the LGBT+ and BAME communities, to join us.