Postdoctoral Research Associate or Fellow

This new post is available from 1 August 2025 on a fixed-term basis until 23 June 2026.

The post
We seek to recruit a new full-time 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://projects.exeter.ac.uk/davidrichards) is available from 1st August 2025 on a fixed-term basis until 23rd June 2026.

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 research project jointly funded by the NC3Rs and the BBSRC, entitled “A novel in silico framework for early mammalian embryo development”.

About you

For Associate: Applicants will possess a relevant PhD (or nearing completion) or possess an equivalent qualification/experience in a related field of study, which may include (but is not restricted to) mathematics, physics, computer science, biophysics or engineering and be able to demonstrate sufficient knowledge in the discipline and of research methods and techniques to work within established research programmes.

For Fellow: Applicants will possess 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. The successful applicant will be a nationally recognised authority in mathematical modelling or computer simulation and possess sufficient specialist knowledge in the discipline to develop research programmes and methodologies. The successful applicant will also be able to work collaboratively, supervise the work of others and act as team leader as required.

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.

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

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