Position Summary

The successful Research Associate candidate will join an interdisciplinary group at Michigan State University that applies computational mathematical approaches to Grand Challenges in biology. This position is funded through the National Science Foundation Plant Genome Research Program. The focus of study is large and complex biological datasets, including leaf shapes from across the flowering plants, RNA-seq gene expression data, and empirically determined and predicted protein structures. We will apply techniques from Topological Data Analysis (TDA), such as the Euler Characteristic Transform (ECT) and a graph visualization method called Mapper, to extract information about underlying data structures. Using machine learning applied to topological signatures, the successful candidate will create models that predict phenotype from molecular signatures. There is an opportunity to develop curriculum for an interdisciplinary and international class bridging biology and computational sciences and to involve students in participatory research.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Mathematics, Computational Sciences, or related

Minimum Requirements

Experience in quantitative, mathematical, and computational approaches and a desire to apply methods to biological questions.

Desired Qualifications

Beyond a PhD in mathematics, computational sciences, biological sciences, or related fields, the successful candidate will have an open mindset to learning new techniques in an interdisciplinary environment and working in community with diverse researchers and learners. The candidate will also be open to educational research and involving students in classroom research experiences.

Required Application Materials

CV, cover letter, research statement, and contact information for at least two references.

Review of Applications Begins On

06/01/2024

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Website

cmse.msu.edu

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.

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About Michigan State University

Spartans work every day to advance the common good in uncommon ways.Together, we tackle some of the world?s toughest problems to find solutions that make life better?from alternative energy to better food safety to breakthrough medical and environmental applications achieved through rare isotope research.We teach. We explore and we discover. We collaborate and lead. We innovate, inspire, and empower. We achieve our potential and create circumstances that help our students and others achieve theirs.We're good at it, and we've been at it for more than 150 years.The nation?s pioneer land-grant university, MSU began as a bold experiment that democratized higher education and helped bring science and innovation into everyday life. The revolutionary concept became a model for the nation.Today, MSU is one of the top research universities in the world?on one of the biggest, greenest campuses in the nation. Home to nationally ranked and recognized academic, residential college, and service-learning programs, we?re a diverse community of dedicated students and scholars, athletes and artists, scientists and leaders.In ways both practical and profound, we work to create a stronger, more sustainable, and more hopeful future for all.

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