I seek to hire a postdoctoral fellow to work on theoretical and computational biophysics as part of my research group in the Physics Department at Simon Fraser University. Please forward this announcement to any interested parties.
My interdisciplinary research group combines approaches from statistical physics and thermodynamics, molecular biophysics, and information theory to elucidate the physical limits placed on biological systems by their operational imperatives: performing productive functions rapidly while driven by strong gradients, using fluctuation-dominated microscopic objects of low copy number in a cell at ambient temperature. Our theoretical flights of fancy are tethered to reality through close collaborations with experimentalists both down the hall and around the world.
The postdoctoral position will focus on developing theory and numerical simulation for the design, analysis, and interpretation of experiments probing the fundamental design principles of effective molecular-scale free-energy transduction, both in model biophysical systems and biomolecular machines. Within this broad research thrust there is ample freedom to pursue particular areas of personal scientific interest. Postdoctoral fellows in my diverse and welcoming group mentor grad students and undergrads, play important (often leadership) roles in other trainees’ research projects, and are embedded in the intellectually stimulating and interactive biophysics community within SFU Physics.
The jaw-dropping natural setting, endless all-season outdoors opportunities, mild weather, diverse and delicious food, and robust public transit make Vancouver an enviable place to call home; slightly more objectively, it makes virtually every top-10 list of the most livable cities in the world.
The ideal candidate would have experience with statistical mechanics and computer programming, and a PhD in a relevant field (broadly construed: physics, biophysics, or relevant areas of chemistry, engineering, applied math, statistics, computer science, etc). But most important is intellectual curiosity, enthusiasm for research in this area, and an excellent track record in previous projects. Initial appointment is for 1 year; extension to 2 years or longer is possible, based on mutual agreement. Interested candidates should send to dsivak AT sfu.ca a cover letter and detailed CV (including publication list and contact information for 2-3 references). Start date is flexible, but the sooner the better. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but those submitted by May 15 will receive full consideration.
I am committed to ensuring that no individual is denied access to employment opportunities for reasons unrelated to ability or qualifications. Candidates who belong to underrepresented groups in Physics are particularly welcome to apply.