The aim of the project is to mathematically model the dynamics of viral infection of the bacterium Caulobacter crescentus. This will involve dissecting the spatiotemporal dynamics of viral entry, the role of the bacterial cytoskeleton, and the impact of the virus on cell cycle dynamics. The modelling will involve a combination of ordinary/partial differential equations and Monte-Carlo simulations. The investigation will be carried out in close collaboration with the Wright group (Atlanta, electron cryo-tomography) and the Viollier group (Geneva, fluorescence microscopy and genetics). Experimental results from the Viollier/Wright labs will be used to test ideas from the theory, and thereby iteratively improve the model. Further details of this project and on the Howard group can be found at http://www.jic.ac.uk/staff/martin-howard/index.htm
The postholder will be an outstanding scientist who has, or expects soon to receive, a PhD in Theoretical Physics, Biomathematics or related subject. We are looking for a self-motivated and creative individual, who can contribute with new ideas. Prior experience in modelling biological systems is not essential, but we expect the postholder to enthusiastically seek new challenges in quantitative biology. The successful candidate must be available to travel to international meetings and for short visits to the two collaborating laboratories abroad. We will be providing the postholder with opportunities to develop their technical and transferable skills during this assignment, by way of training programmes, coaching and mentoring.
The appointment will be as a Postdoctoral Researcher and the salary will be within the range £26,610 to £29,566 dependent upon qualifications and experience.
Further details of eligibility and reward package are available from http://www.jic.ac.uk/corporate/opportunities/vacancies/PDF_Scheme_overview.doc
For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our web site http://jobs.jic.ac.uk or contact Human Resources, The Operations Centre, Norwich Bioscience Institutes, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK, 01603 450462 quoting reference 1002007.
