PhD Position in Digital Twins of Embryonic Development

The Computational Biology Group (Prof Dagmar Iber) at D-BSSE develops digital twins of embryonic development using image-based mechanistic modelling and simulation.

Organogenesis, the formation of organs during embryonic development, depends on tightly coordinated cell signalling, growth and mechanics. Our group combines quantitative imaging data with mathematical and computational models to understand how tissues self-organise and how this process goes wrong in disease. We work closely with experimental collaborators and develop open-source simulation tools.

The PhD position focuses on developing mathematical and computational models of mouse and human development. You will:

• develop data-based, mechanistic models and simulations of tissue development
• integrate quantitative imaging data from experimental collaborators into your models
• publish your results and present them at international conferences
• contribute to the group's open-source simulation tools and to teaching

We are looking for a self-motivated candidate who is enthusiastic about developing data-based mathematical models in developmental biology. The position suits someone with training in biology, mathematical modelling and scientific computing.

You should have:

• a Master's degree
• a solid understanding of developmental, cell and molecular biology, and the ability to interpret experimental and imaging data
• experience in mathematical modelling, for example with ordinary or partial differential equations, dynamical systems or stochastic models, gained through coursework, a thesis or a project
• programming experience in a language such as Matlab, Julia, Python or R
• good written and spoken English

During the PhD you may also work with finite element methods (e.g. COMSOL) and C++ software. Prior experience with these is not required.

• A PhD position in an interdisciplinary, international research environment at the interface of mathematics, computing and biology
• Close collaboration with leading experimental groups
• Excellent infrastructure and computing resources at ETH Zurich
• Support for your scientific development, including conference travel and training
• Competitive ETH doctoral salary and conditions

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

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