Postdoctoral Research Associate - AI​/machine learning analytical and forensic chemistry

2025 Postdoctoral Research Associate - AI/machine learning for analytical and forensic chemistry

D-25-LPB-00006 | Research | Ludwig Princeton Branch

The Skinnider Lab at Princeton University aims to recruit a postdoctoral fellow or more senior researcher to work on projects related to computational analysis of chemical and biochemical datasets. A major focus will be on the identification of small molecules from mass spectrometry-based metabolomics data, in part based on generative AI models of chemical structures. The position is available starting July 2025, and will remain open until excellent fits are found.

• Develop and apply computational approaches to chemical datasets, with a major focus on AI/ML.
• Identify small molecules from mass spectrometry-based metabolomics data, leveraging generative AI models and language models.
• Collaborate with experimentalists to validate machine‑learning predictions, including detection of emerging illicit drugs in seized drug products or clinical samples.
• Develop user‑friendly tools that will be used by a broad community.
• Preprocess and curate noisy or low‑quality data to support model development and evaluation.

• Motivated, independent, and possessing strong written communication skills.
• PhD in computational biology, chemistry, biochemistry, computer science, biological or chemical engineering, forensic science, or a related field.
• Experience in computational biology/bioinformatics, cheminformatics, analytical chemistry/mass spectrometry/metabolomics, or machine learning/computer science, demonstrated through at least one first‑author publication.
• Experience with integrating language models with mass spectrometry data or large‑scale meta‑analyses of mass spectrometric datasets is advantageous.

Postdoctoral rank: one year, with possibility of renewal pending satisfactory performance and continued funding. Senior ranks may receive multi‑year appointments.

In‑person on campus at Princeton University. This position is subject to Princeton University's background check policy.

Expected Salary Range: $65,000 - $70,000. The University offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees.

Apply online at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). and submit a CV and cover letter. Highlight 1‑3 publications that best address the required experience. Include contact information for three references. Qualified candidates may complete short programming exercises.

For more information, contact ludwigcancer.

PI