Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate (Postdoc) to develop a deep learning pipeline aimed at benchmarking alternative methods for representing proteins and protein surfaces. The Postdoc will join Dr. Camille Bilodeau’s research group in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Virginia and will collaborate closely with research partners within the department and at other institutions to lead and contribute to projects involving developing machine learning methods to predict protein properties, using molecular simulations to generate training data, and constructing software pipelines to interface the machine learning or molecular models with transport models.

• Develop a python-based pipeline to generate machine learning inputs from protein sequence/structure data
• Develop a Pytorch-based pipeline to predict the properties of proteins based on a wide array of protein representations including both standard and custom representations
• Perform large scale molecular simulations to generate training data for deep learning models
• Construct an open-source python-based software package that allows pretrained models to be used in combination with transport models developed by collaborators
• Lead team meetings and provide regular updates to collaborators
• Synthesize and disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and presentations
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students and contribute to an inclusive and collaborative research environment
• Contribute to proposal development and identification of new funding opportunities

• Deep learning
• Molecular simulations
• Biophysics of proteins
• Python-based coding/software development

The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research, communicate effectively across disciplinary boundaries, and work collaboratively with academic, government, and community partners. Experience mentoring students is a plus.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.