ERC-funded postdoctoral fellow in theoretical developmental biology

ERC-funded postdoctoral fellow in theoretical developmental biology, using tools from applied mathematics, biophysics, and machine learning

A talented and creative researcher is sought to take part in a highly interdisciplinary project funded by the European Research Council (ERC). The overall aim of the project is to understand how intercellular signalling in developing embryos allows them to self-organize into complex structures. Our approach is to develop sophisticated mathematical models – informed by state-of-the-art biological knowledge and experimental data – to understand these counterintuitive reaction-diffusion mechanisms. We are particularly interested in discovering genuinely novel classes of reaction-diffusion mechanism, beyond the classic paradigms from applied mathematics and physics (e.g., Turing patterns). This will involve: (i) developing new analytical/theoretical tools for the study of reaction-diffusion systems, (ii) performing large scale, machine-learning-assisted numerical screens of putative reaction-diffusion circuits, and (iii) studying specific biological systems in close collaboration with experimentalists to guide our models.

The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary research team, led by Dr Tom Hiscock, who uses computational and theoretical approaches to understand fundamental questions in developmental biology (see https://twhiscock.github.io/). There are multiple projects available in the group, and considerable flexibility in project direction. Successful candidates will have the opportunity and mentorship available to develop their own ideas and shape the project direction from an early stage.

The candidate will be based at the Institute of Medical Sciences, where they will join a diverse community of researchers working on a range of biological phenomena, and a short distance from strong applied maths and physics departments. They will also join a wider multi-disciplinary collaboration, alongside experimentalists in Cambridge, Basel, and Dundee. The Hiscock group is based at the University of Aberdeen, located in an affordable and vibrant city with access to some of the best outdoors activities that the UK has to offer.

We are seeking a talented individual who is motivated to understand how embryos develop and who shows initiative and creativity in solving difficult research problems. Since the project will involve advanced mathematical and computational techniques, it is essential to have experience in mathematical modelling / dynamical systems theory / numerical methods / coding. An ideal candidate would have a PhD, or postdoctoral experience, in computational/mathematical biology (this includes PhD students who are near completion but have yet to submit). However, talented candidates from a wide range of disciplines are encouraged to apply – including from the physical/mathematical sciences without any prior biology background – provided they can evidence enthusiasm and commitment to learning about developmental biology.

Informal enquiries should be made to Dr Tom Hiscock, e-mail: thomas.hiscock@abdn.ac.uk

Online application forms are available at www.abdn.ac.uk/jobs

Salary will be at the appropriate point on the Grade 6 scale, £38,249 – £45,413 per annum, pro rata and negotiable with placement according to qualifications and experience.

Any appointment will be made subject to satisfactory references and probation period.

Informal enquiries should be made to Dr Tom Hiscock, e-mail: thomas.hiscock@abdn.ac.uk

Prior to employment, the successful candidate must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK. This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route under the UKVI immigration rules but is dependent on factors specific to the candidate and if tradeable points can be used under the rules. As this post is funded by the ERC, the successful candidate may also be eligible for a Global Talent Visa.

Information on other visa options is available at https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa.

Please do not hesitate to contact Grant Rae, HR Adviser (e-mail: grant.rae@abdn.ac.uk) for further information.

To apply online for this position visit www.abdn.ac.uk/jobs

Job Reference Number: IMS308R

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 27 July 2025

The Institute of Medical Sciences embraces a diverse working environment and recognises the many benefits this can bring. Applications from individuals from across all of the equality protected characteristics are encouraged.

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