Postdoctoral position in Biophysics and Deep Learning - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Postdoctoral position in Biophysics and Deep Learning

Are you interested in working with biophysics and deep learning, with the support of competent and friendly colleagues in an international environment? Are you looking for an employer that invests in sustainable employeeship and offers safe, favourable working conditions? We welcome you to apply for a postdoc position at Uppsala University.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy is one of Uppsala University's largest with almost 400 employees. The Department conducts world-class research and education in both theoretical and experimental physics and has extensive collaboration with the outside world. The research we conduct covers everything from the unimaginably small to the large in areas such as energy supply, climate change, new materials and the universe. Our work is also reflected in the department's courses and educational programs. Every year, about 2500 students take courses at first and second cycle level at the department. Read more at www.physics.uu.se  

The postdoctor position is allocated within the Biophysics group at the Division of X-ray Photon Science. The research focuses on understanding the fundamental properties in matter on femtosecond time scales and with Ångström resolution. The program has a leading position in the use of X-ray lasers such as the EuXFEL in Hamburg and LCLS in Stanford, to probe atoms, molecules, and chemical and biomolecular systems. The research addresses fundamental questions concerning the interaction of light and matter, by studying structure and dynamics in biological systems with intense X-ray pulses. The research is conducted both with experiments at X-ray free-electron lasers for spectroscopy and imaging of complex biological systems, combined with advanced theoretical modelling of the ultrafast dynamics that takes place in the system under the X-ray pulse. The project takes a new direction that will focus on development and application of machine learning to support experimental data analysis and the modelling of dynamics in molecular systems on ultrafast time scales. The work environment is flexible, inclusive and always welcomes your own creative ideas and initiatives.

Duties
A significant part of the research will consist in developing and using deep learning tools for X-ray spectroscopy, imaging and ultrafast dynamics of macromolecules with X-ray lasers, withing the framework of a funded VR grant.

• Develop deep learning models for coherent imaging methods of isolated macromolecules.
• Develop neural networks and deep learning methods for plasma spectroscopy, and in connection with fluorescence imaging and investigation of X-ray resonances.
• Carry out research of fragmentation of macromolecules, with molecular dynamics simulations and imaging methods, including machine learning, for 3D structure determination.
• Prepare and perform experiments at synchrotron facilities and X-ray free electron lasers.
• Co-supervision of student projects in biophysics.
• Coordinate scientific collaborations with experimental and theoretical groups, both within the university and internationally.
• Part of the work involves active participation in the biophysics network and presentation of results.

The work will involve domestic and international travel.  

Requirements
PhD degree in natural sciences or engineering, or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD degree in these subjects. The degree needs to be obtained by the time of the decision of employment. Those who have obtained a PhD degree three years prior to the application deadline are primarily considered for the employment. The starting point of the three-year frame period is the application deadline. Due to special circumstances, the degree may have been obtained earlier. The three-year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave, parental leave, duties in labour unions, etc.

The following qualifications are required to succeed in the position:

• Proven research experience with deep learning and neural networks.
• Very good programming skills, experience with Linux and integration of several software systems.
• Ability to communicate well, both technically and at a general scientific level.
• Ability to produce good written reports and articles.
• High motivation and strong team spirit.
• Fluency in both written and spoken English.

Additional qualifications

The following merits are an asset for the position:

• Experience in performing tasks both independently and in a team.
• Research experience in imaging of macromolecules with X-ray lasers is particularly meritorious.
• Research experience in X-ray spectroscopy with X-ray lasers is particularly meritorious.
• Experience of experiments with X-ray lasers and collaboration with experimental groups is particularly meritorious.
• Teaching experience and supervision of students at the university is desirable.

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position of two years according to central collective agreement. Full time position. Starting date 1 September 2024 or as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position, please contact: Nicusor Timneanu, +46 704 250926, nicusor.timneanu@physics.uu.se

Please submit your application by 26 August 2024, UFV-PA 2024/2640.

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