The MPI for Molecular Plant Physiology in Potsdam is looking for a
Computational Biologist
Are you a passionate computational biologist eager to shape new plant genomes? Do you want to apply cutting-edge large language models to genome design and regulatory element prediction? If so, join us at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Plant Physiology.
We have a strong experimental platform where your computational designs will be directly tested in plants. You will work closely with a plant biologist to refine models and develop tools that advance the emerging field of plant synthetic biology.
Our team aims to develop methods that enable the synthesis of novel plant genomes with tailored functions. These genomes will operate on synthetic genetic codes designed for artificial polymer production and the genetic isolation of synthetic elements. Additionally, we will explore the de novo design of chloroplast genomes that can function across multiple plant species.
We specialise in method development, focusing on synthetic genomics at the intersection of computational, molecular, synthetic, and plant biology. We aim to build an interdisciplinary and diverse group to drive innovation in this field.
Your specific tasks:
* Develop large language models tailored to chloroplast biology.
* Design synthetic chloroplast genomes following specific design rules.
* Develop predictive tools for regulatory elements in chloroplasts.
Beyond these research tasks, we offer a platform for you to take initiative and grow into an independent scientist. As a postdoc, you will have the opportunity to shape the direction of your project.
* Mentor MSc and PhD students, preparing for a future supervisory role.
* Attend workshops and conferences to present your findings and advance your professional development.
Your profile:
* PhD in Machine Learning, Computational Science, Computational Biology, or a related field, with first-author or co-author publications in preprints or peer-reviewed journals.
* Experience with advanced phylogenetics and omics data analysis, as well as de novo assembly of chloroplast and mitochondrial genomes from sequencing data, is advantageous.
* Flexibility in the start date is a big plus, we would like you to start as soon as possible.
* You are committed to fostering a friendly and welcoming lab atmosphere. Whether you are a team player or prefer to focus on your own work, as long as you contribute to an inclusive workplace, you are welcome in our team!
What we value and offer:
We value motivation, ambition, and teamwork and are committed to fostering a fast-paced, supportive, and collaborative environment.
We offer a stimulating research setting at one of the world’s leading plant biology institutes. The Max Planck Institute for Molecular Plant Physiology, located in Potsdam-Golm near Berlin, provides world-class infrastructure and outstanding support services. These positions come with generous funding, allowing full focus on research for up to three years.
How to apply:
Tell us why you want to work in plant synthetic biology and why you are best positioned to design artificial chloroplast genomes. Also, describe what you want your work environment to look like and how we can best support your productivity.