Postdoctoral Fellow in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

Postdoctoral Fellow in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

Company: Harvard University

Job Location: Cambridge, 02138

Category: Physics

Type: Full-Time

School: Faculty of Arts and Sciences

Department/Area: Organismic and Evolutionary Biology

Position Description

We seek a postdoctoral research associate to work with Professor Michael Desai at Harvard University on projects involving inferring sequence-function landscapes, using a combination of empirical data and ML methods (e.g. transformer models). One focus of this work will be on B-cell receptor evolution. Experience in applications of modern machine learning methods as well as in biological data analysis are needed for the position. The postdoctoral researcher will play a leading role in this research, including methods development, data analysis and research dissemination, working closely with the project PI (Dr. Desai).

The appointment is for one year with a possibility of renewal based on performance.

Basic Qualifications

Candidates must have a PhD in physics, biology, or a related field by the time of appointment. The ideal candidate will also have demonstrated experience in machine learning and biological data analysis and a strong track record of scientific publications and conference presentations in related disciplines.

Special Instructions

Candidates should upload the following materials:

1. A curriculum vitae
2. A 2-3 page cover letter outlining their research interests and experience
3. Names and contact information of three references.

Review of applications will begin on April 1st 2026, with an expected start date of May 1st 2026.

Contact Information

Professor Michael Desai

Contact Email: mdesai@oeb.harvard.edu

Salary Range $67,600-$80,000

Minimum Number of References Required: 3

Maximum Number of References Allowed: 3