A position exists for a Research Associate in the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics and the Gurdon Institute to work on the theory of living and active matter.

Alongside wet lab work using transgenic mouse models and organoid systems, the Simons group uses analytical and computational approaches to study theories of living and active matter, from mechanisms of cell fate in normal and cancerous states to the morphogenesis of patterned tissues, epigenetic inheritance and machine learning based methods (). Current interests of the lab include stem cell density regulation, and the role of injury-induced cellular reprogramming in cancer development. The group benefits from collaborations with experimental partners in the UK and overseas.

With experience in statistical and computational approaches in biological systems or active matter, you will contribute to activities of the group. This may include analysing data from our own lab and collaborative partners or advancing new areas of theoretical/computational research in living and active matter.

Duties include developing and conducting individual and collaborative research objectives and projects. The role holder will be expected to plan and manage their own research and administration, with guidance as required. You must be able to communicate material of a technical nature and be able to build internal and external contacts. You may be asked to assist in the supervision of student projects, the development of student research skills, and provide instruction or plan/deliver seminars relating to the research area.

The successful candidate will have, or expect soon to receive, a PhD in a relevant subject, such as statistical physics or computer science, and a strong publication record in statistical physics or computational biology. You will be expected to be able to work independently and interact well within a multidisciplinary environment.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Informal inquiries can be made by contacting or

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We particularly welcome applications from women and /or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our Department.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.