Postdoctoral position in ML and Computational Biology

[Lydia Kavraki]

Postdoctoral Position in Machine Learning and Computational Biology 

The Kavraki Lab at Rice University (http://www.kavrakilab.org) seeks candidates to fill one postdoctoral research associate position. The available project is on computational modeling of molecular interaction interfaces by integrating protein structural data mining and machine learning. The overall goal of our research is to develop novel methodologies for the analysis of peptide-HLAs, and their recognition by CTLs, and implement these methodologies in toolkits that immunologists can use. We also aspire to use our work beyond the realm of peptide-HLAs. Our research heavily uses machine learning methods and will lead to the development of new machine learning methodologies for biology. 

Due to restrictions in funding, this position is only open to US citizens or permanent residents. 

The individual recruited to fill this position will work closely with collaborators at the MD Anderson Cancer Center and other researchers at the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world. 

QUALIFICATIONS: The ideal candidate will have a strong enthusiasm for interdisciplinary work. Required skills include training in machine learning, excellent analytical skills, and strong experience with programming in Python. Prior knowledge of immunology is not required, but it is desirable. Familiarity with bioinformatics databases and tools is also desirable. A Ph.D. is required for the position in a related field. In the past, successful candidates had degrees in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Bioengineering, Biophysics, Computational Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. Excellent communication and collaboration skills are required as the selected candidate will be expected to work closely with current lab members and collaborators.

DURATION: Postdoctoral research associates are eligible for up to two years of support. All re-appointments are dependent upon a satisfactory progress review and continued funding. 

ABOUT RICE UNIVERSITY: As a leading research university with a distinctive commitment to undergraduate education, Rice University (http://www.rice.edu) aspires to path breaking research, unsurpassed teaching, and contributions to the betterment of our world. It seeks to fulfill this mission by cultivating a diverse community of learning and discovery that produces leaders across the spectrum of human endeavor. Rice University, an equal opportunity employer and a Tier 1 Research University, is located in the vibrant urban setting of Houston, TX, the fourth largest city in the U.S. Rice is ranked #17 in National Universities in the 2020 edition of US News Best Colleges and #2 for Quality of Life in the Princeton Review’s 2018 edition of “The Best 382 Colleges.”

ABOUT THE LAB: The Kavraki Lab (http://www.kavrakilab.org) develops computational methods and tools to model protein structure and function, understand biomolecular interactions, aid the process of medicinal drug discovery, analyze the molecular machinery of the cell, and help integrate biological and biomedical data for improving human health. The Lab provides a stimulating working environment and has an excellent record of placing postdocs in faculty positions. The Computer Science Department at Rice University is part of the Gulf Coast Consortia for Quantitative Biomedical Sciences (http://www.gulfcoastconsortia.org) and offers an unparalleled training environment.

Interested applicants should contact Professor Lydia Kavraki (kav...@rice.edu) and provide a CV and a research statement. Please include the names of at least three references.