Postdoctoral Scholar - Huck Institutes Life Sciences​/NSF NCEMS

Postdoctoral Scholar (Physics / Statistical Mechanics in Molecular Biology)

The National Synthesis Center for Emergence in the Molecular and Cellular Sciences (NCEMS) at The Pennsylvania State University (ncems.psu.edu) seeks an outstanding scientist to fill a Postdoctoral Scholar position in Physics, Statistical Mechanics, and Quantitative Modeling housed within the Huck Institutes of Life Sciences at Penn State University.

NCEMS is an NSF‑funded interdisciplinary research center positioned at the interface of data science, molecular and cellular biology, and quantitative physical sciences. The Center provides leadership in the integration of diverse, publicly available datasets to gain insights into emergent phenomena in molecular and cellular biology.

The successful candidate, in collaboration with faculty at NCEMS, will conduct research in molecular biology by applying methods from physics, statistical mechanics, quantitative modeling, or related areas that synergize with the scientific goals, data products, and methodological innovations of NCEMS. This position is designed to support the scholar’s development as an independent researcher while embedding them in a highly collaborative synthesis science environment.

This is a term position; the length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. The appointment is full‑time and on‑site at the Penn State University Park campus. Remote work is not permitted. This term appointment is funded for one year from the date of hire with an excellent chance for multiple years of renewal based upon mutual agreement.

• A PhD in Physics or Biological Physics is required.
• Strong foundation in statistical mechanics, stochastic processes, dynamical systems, complex systems, or related quantitative approaches.
• Experience in developing and implementing analytical or computational models and simulations.
• Ability to conduct research and produce scholarly outputs, as demonstrated through publications in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Familiarity with molecular and cellular biology concepts, such as protein interactions, molecular assemblies, gene regulation, cellular organization, or biological networks.
• Independent self‑starter with a strong work ethic, strong interpersonal and written communication skills, and the ability to work well in a collaborative team environment.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being.

Penn State is an equal‑opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.