University of Minnesota, School of Mathematics

Position ID: UMN-TMDC [#23198]
Position Title: Postdoctoral Associate
Position Type: Postdoctoral
Position Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States of America
Subject Area: Mathematical Biology
Application Deadline: 2023/12/01 11:59PMhelp popup finished (2023/09/25, finished 2024/04/03, listed until 2024/03/15)
Position Description:   URMs  

*** this position has been closed and new applications are no longer accepted. ***

The Therapy Modeling and Design Center (TMDC), a new University of Minnesota research center, seeks to hire up to three Post-Doctoral researchers to lead multiple projects under the mission of the TMDC which is to leverage mechanistic mathematical modeling and engineering principles to optimize therapy designs. More information about the center can be found here: https://cse.umn.edu/tmdc.

The successful candidate will be responsible for leading TMDC modeling projects focused on developing multiscale computational models that advance the development of cancer therapies (e.g. cell-based therapies, small molecules, radiation, etc.) through close collaboration with therapy developers, experimentalists, and clinical trialists. 

All TMDC personnel will be expected to be present on campus for weekly core center activities and meetings, but will also have the option of a hybrid work schedule. TMDC is closely connected to the UMN Cancer Bioengineering Initiative and TMDC post-docs will have many opportunities to interact with this community which includes > 60 graduate students and post-docs. In addition, TMDC is supported by the Masonic Comprehensive Cancer Center and the College of Science & Engineering, which provide additional opportunities for seminars and symposia. The position has secure funding for three years and strong prospects for future funding through grant writing and philanthropy efforts already in motion. The salary range is $60k - 70K, depending on qualifications and experience. TMDC is committed to establishing a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture and the successful applicant will be expected to help develop and implement center policies and practices to this end. 

For more information about the positions, please contact center directors, Jasmine Foo, Kevin Leder, and David Odde.

Major Responsibilities: 

20% - Develop novel theoretical models of biological processes driving therapy response, working closely with therapy developers, TMDC directors, and additional collaborators with relevant subject area expertise. 

20% - Convert theoretical models to mathematical models using appropriate modeling strategies. Parametrize models using experimental data, simulate models (using MatLab, C++, Python, or other suitable programming language) and perform sensitivity analyses.

20% - Utilize mathematical models to optimize and improve therapy development process (e.g. design dosing regimens, minimize toxicities, identify combination therapy and synergy opportunities). 


15% Analyze modeling results and present to TMDC Modeling Team including Directors, and Therapy Developer collaborators

15% - Develop and document process and results in internal reports and manuscripts submitted for publication in peer-reviewed archival scientific journals

5% - Meet with therapy developers and experimental collaborators on an as-needed basis to discuss relevant biological theory, review literature, and discuss model development and results.

5% - Develop and manage project schedules to ensure timely completion of project deliverables

Required Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in engineering, math, physical sciences, or related field, with life sciences knowledge 
  • Math modeling experience including numerical solution approaches 
  • Growth mindset / willing to learn new things 
  • Strong publication record 
  • Demonstrated potential for leading a research group and managing multiple projects 
Preferred Qualifications: 
  • Clinical trials experience / knowledge PK/PD modeling 
  • Knowledge of differential equation and agent-based modeling 
  • Cellular and molecular biology expertise 
  • Working knowledge of fundamental principles of physics and chemistry 
  • Demonstrated interest and accomplishment in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion 
  • Working knowledge of statistics and machine learning including sensitivity analysis 

The preferred start date will be the summer of 2024. Applications will be reviewed starting December 1, 2023 and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants should submit an AMS cover sheet, complete curriculum vitae, a description of their research background and interest in this project. Letters of recommendation will be requested for short-listed candidates. Any offer of employment will be contingent on a successful background check. The University of Minnesota is an Equal Opportunity Educator and Employer.


Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
  • Cover letter
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Research statement
And anything else requested in the position description.

Further Info:
https://cse.umn.edu/tmdc
email address
 
127 Vincent Hall
206 Church St SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455