Two Postdoctoral Positions, Biological Complexity (Pigolotti) Unit
Conduct theoretical research on biological systems using statistical physics, focusing on DNA replication and microbial population dynamics.
The Position
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST; see www.oist.jp) is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding (OIST campus video tour). There are no academic departments, which facilitates multidisciplinary research. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration. English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research.
Position Summary
The Biological Complexity Unit at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), Japan, headed by Prof. Simone Pigolotti, is seeking to hire two outstanding postdocs. The research unit studies biological systems using theoretical methods from statistical physics. One of our main research topics is the study of DNA replication and other information-processing mechanisms in bacteria. Our other research interests include population dynamics of microbial organisms and the non-equilibrium thermodynamics of biological systems. Please see our website https://groups.oist.jp/bcu/research for more information.
Responsibilities
To pursue research projects in the Biological Complexity Unit, in collaboration with the PI and other unit members. Postdoctoral scholars are also expected to participate in training and mentorship of Ph.D. students and other unit staff.
Requirements
Qualifications
Required
- A Ph.D. in theoretical biophysics, statistical physics, mathematical biology or related topics.
- Excellent analytical/computational skills.
- Willingness to collaborate with experimental groups.
Preferred
- Experience in bioinformatics and in the unit's specific research topics.
Benefits
- Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
- Annual paid leave and summer holidays
- Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
- Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
- Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
- Access to Child Development Center
- Access to Schooling Options
- Language Education
- Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
- Remote Work system
Additional Info
Employment Term
Full-time, fixed-term appointment for 2 years. Contract initially with 6-month probationary period (inclusive). This contract may be renewed by taking into consideration the performance, conduct, and behavior of the Employee and OIST's financial and other circumstances.
Working Hours
9:00-17:30 (Discretionary)
Holidays: Saturday, Sunday, National holidays, and Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3)
Leave: Annual Paid Leave, Summer Leave, Sick Leave, and Special Leave
Overtime work hours: Discretionary Working Hours System: In the discretionary labor system for specialized work, the employee shall be deemed to have worked 7 hours 30 minutes per day.
Application Documents
CV, a cover letter and a brief statement of research interests combined in a single PDF file to [email protected] and arrange for at least two recommendation letters.
- Prior to the start of employment all new hires are required to successfully complete a background check. Personal information including employment history and academic background should be submitted to third-party administrators after a conditional offer of employment.
Declaration
- OIST Graduate University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer and is committed to increasing the diversity of its faculty, students and staff.
- Information provided by applicants or references will be kept confidential, documents will not be returned. All applicants will be notified regarding the status of their applications. OIST Privacy Policy
- Recruiting Organization: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology School Corporation
- Prevention of Passive Smoking: No smoking indoors
- Please view our policy for rules on external professional activities (Information Disclosure – 10. Others – 6. OIST Rules for Concurrent Appointment).
- Further details about the University can be viewed on our website.
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