Post-Doctoral Fellow, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering

Colorado School of Mines • Colorado, CO

2d • Onsite

About The Position

A postdoctoral scholar position is available in Professor Alexander Pak’s research group in the Chemical and Biological Engineering Department at the Colorado School of Mines. The postdoctoral scholar will contribute to a research program focused on (i) the development of data-driven (e.g., machine-learned) methods for coarse-graining of macromolecules and (ii) their application to energy transduction systems across biology. Of specific interest are methods that capture faithful dynamics under equilibrium and nonequilibrium conditions. The successful candidate will hold a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, chemistry, physics, materials science, biophysics, applied mathematics, computer science, or related field. The candidate must have experience with molecular simulation, statistical mechanics, or closely related computational methods, as well as strong programming and scientific computing skills. The candidate should demonstrate the ability to conduct independent computational research, analyze complex numerical or simulation data, and communicate research effectively through scientific publications and presentations. Preferred qualifications include experience with molecular dynamics, coarse-grained or multiscale modeling, and machine learning or other data-driven methods. Familiarity with stochastic or nonequilibrium thermodynamics is particularly relevant. The successful candidate will have flexibility to develop new methodological and scientific directions within the broader goals of the project and will work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment with other members of the group and external collaborators.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in chemical engineering, chemistry, physics, materials science, biophysics, applied mathematics, computer science, or related field, with demonstrated experience with molecular simulation, statistical mechanics, or closely related computational methods, as well as strong programming and scientific computing skills.
• Knowledge of molecular simulation, statistical mechanics, and computational molecular science
• Knowledge of molecular dynamics and the principles underlying coarse-graining and/or multiscale modeling
• Ability to develop, implement, and critically evaluate new computational methodologies
• Strong scientific programming, numerical analysis, and data analysis skills
• Ability to independently formulate research questions, troubleshoot computational problems, and interpret simulation results
• Ability to critically evaluate scientific literature and integrate concepts from multiple disciplines
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team

Nice To Haves

• Experience with coarse-grained modeling, multiscale simulation, or the development of molecular simulation methods
• Knowledge of stochastic and nonequilibrium dynamics or nonequilibrium statistical mechanics
• Ability to connect mathematical or statistical descriptions of molecular dynamics with physically interpretable models
• Familiarity with machine learning or other data-driven modeling approaches, particularly for molecular simulation or dynamical systems
• Experience with molecular simulation software such as GROMACS, LAMMPS, or OpenMM and/or machine-learning frameworks such as Tensorflow, PyTorch, or JAX
• Experience with high-performance computing environments, especially with GPU acceleration
• Experience with reproducible scientific software development, including version control, documentation, and dissemination of scientific software
• Ability to mentor and support graduate and undergraduate researchers

Responsibilities

• Develop computational methodologies to improve the accuracy, transferability, and dynamical fidelity of low-resolution coarse-grained models of biomolecular systems
• Apply computational strategies to characterize and control biomolecular self-organization, including protein reorganization during energy transduction processes
• Develop, implement, and maintain open-source code for coarse-grained modeling and simulation
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals
• Present research findings at conferences and symposia
• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports and other deliverables for funding agencies
• Contribute to the preparation of research proposals
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers and contribute to a collaborative research environment

Benefits

• Flexible health and dental care options
• Generous sick/vacation time: 13 paid holidays per year – including a week-long winter break for the entire campus.
• Fully vested retirement plan on first day of employment, with generous employer contribution
• Tuition benefits (6 credits per year for employees, 50 percent discount for dependents)
• Free RTD Ecopass for regional bus and lightrail
• Discount programs through the State of Colorado
• Free tickets for Mines Athletics home games
• Access to the state-of-the-art Recreation Center (fitness classes and training, swimming pool and more)
• Equipment rentals through the Outdoor Rec Center
• On-campus daycare center

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree