"HMS - Postdoctoral Fellow in Systems Biology"

School: Harvard Medical School

Department/Area: Systems Biology

Position Description

We invite applicants for a postdoctoral fellow position in the Fontana lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. The work of the Fontana lab is focused on developing and applying software for modeling combinatorial systems of molecular interaction in chemistry and in cellular signaling. We are also applying mathematical formalism to reason about functional organization in biology. We welcome applications from recent PhD graduates who bring a mathematical background and proven expertise to bear on our research, especially with regard to understanding the concept of "closure" in living systems. Closure occurs when the generative processes induced by the components of a system permit the continuous regeneration of these same components. Because of the history of this subject, we are especially interested in candidates with an expertise in category theory.

The successful candidate will work with Dr. Fontana to develop an independent research project within the scope of applying category theory to biological organization. In addition to carrying out theoretical research, the successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the writing of grants and manuscripts, participate in teaching and mentoring of lab members as needed, and otherwise contribute to overall lab operations and collaborative environment.

Salary and Benefits

This position is salaried and benefits eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines. With this appointment, you are represented by the Harvard Academic Workers (HAW) - UAW for purposes of collective bargaining and matters affecting your compensation and working conditions.

Basic Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in computer science and/or mathematics
• Working knowledge in category theory

Special Instructions

Required documents:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Research for PhD work
• Cover Letter describing your interest in the lab and initial ideas for new research directions or projects you could undertake in the lab.
• Note with names and contact information for three people who have agreed to serve as your reference

Please submit application documents through the ARIeS portal. Applications will be considered immediately. Selected candidates will be invited for in-person interviews involving a research presentation on past work.

Expected Dates

• Application deadline: September 30th, 2025
• Start date: The position is expected to start on or around October 6th 2025 with some flexibility.
• Duration: This is a six (6) month term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding to support the position.