Postdoctoral Research Associate/Fellow

This new full-time post is available immediately on a fixed-term basis until 6 June 2025.

Summary of the role
We seek to recruit either a Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow to use mathematical modelling and computer simulation to study the earliest stages of embryogenesis in mammals. This full-time post in the group of Dr David Richards at the Living Systems Institute (http://www.exeter.ac.uk/davidrichards) is available immediately on a fixed-term basis until 6 June 2025.

You will carry out an exciting project to dissect the underlying rules governing development of the mammalian embryo from a single cell to the mature blastocyst. This will involve a combination of computer simulation (e.g. in C++ or MATLAB) and mathematical analysis. As well as intrinsic interest in embryology, achieving a deep understanding of the earliest phases of development may well lead to transformative impact on human fertility and fertility lifespan. Research questions will include the underlying biophysical forces at play, the similarities and differences across animals, and how IVF clinics can better decide which embryos to implant.

This project will be aligned with the aims and objectives of an exciting new research project jointly funded by the NC3Rs and the BBSRC, entitled “A novel in silico framework for early mammalian embryo development”.

About you
You will possess (or be near to completing for Associate) a relevant PhD or equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study, which may include (but is not restricted to) mathematics, physics, computer science, biophysics or engineering.

You will be a nationally recognised authority in mathematical modelling or computer simulation. You are required to be motivated and demonstrate good knowledge of the topic, possess excellent problem solving, interpersonal and communication skills and a collaborative spirit, combined with an ability to think carefully about your research.

In addition, you will:

• Possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to develop/follow research programmes and methodologies.
• Have a record of research output in high quality publications.
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Have a record of active participation of a member of a research team.
• Be able to communicate complex and conceptual ideas to a range of groups.
• Possess evidence of the ability to collaborate actively both internally and externally to complete research projects and advance thinking.
• Be able to participate in and develop internal and external research networks.
• Be able to balance the pressures of research, administrative demands and competing deadlines.
• Be willing to work flexibly to achieve project demands.

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification (available on the university's website, accessed by the apply button) for full details of this role.

The Institute
The Living Systems Institute (LSI) is a major initiative by the University of Exeter, designed to promote interdisciplinary research that transcends the boundaries of biology, medicine, physics, engineering and mathematics. Its mission is to analyse living cells and organisms as integrated systems, with the aim of unravelling how diseases disrupt biological processes at the molecular, cellular and organismal level. Our vision is to work together across disciplines to identify new ways to diagnose, treat and cure disease in plants and animals, especially humans.

Further information
Please contact Dr David Richards (telephone: +44 (0)1392 727483; email: david.richards@exeter.ac.uk).

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