The Zhang Laboratory at Saint Louis University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology. Our research integrates bioinformatics, comparative genomics, evolutionary biology, structural biology, and machine learning to decode genomic information and uncover novel biological mechanisms underlying diverse biochemical systems.
The major research areas include:
• Computational discovery and characterization of novel molecular systems underlying biological conflicts, including host–pathogen interactions, immune defense, genetic conflicts, intercellular competition, and diseases affecting humans, animals, and plants. Systems of interest include polymorphic toxin and effector systems, DNA modification pathways, bacterial anti-phage defense systems, antibiotic biosynthetic pathways, and eukaryotic immune mechanisms.
• Development of computational models for predicting antimicrobial resistance phenotypes and gene regulatory mechanisms.
• Protein domain classification, functional annotation, and evolutionary analysis.
• Development of AI-driven models for genome-based prediction of molecular systems, biological functions, and phenotypes.
The successful candidate will participate in multiple interdisciplinary research projects. Key responsibilities include:
• Conduct independent and collaborative research in bioinformatics, comparative genomics, evolutionary biology, and machine learning.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary researchers across biology, microbiology, computer science, and related disciplines.
• Present research findings at national and international scientific conferences and publish in leading peer-reviewed journals.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students and contribute to a collaborative research environment.
• Participate in the preparation of grant proposals and contribute to securing external research funding.
• Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biology, Computer Science, or a closely related field with strong computational training.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas: protein bioinformatics, comparative genomics, evolutionary biology, machine learning, structural bioinformatics, or biological database development.
• Strong programming skills in Python and proficiency in Unix/Linux environments.
• Demonstrated record of publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research team.
Please email the following materials directly to Dr. Dapeng Zhang with the subject line “Postdoc Application”:
1. A cover letter describing research interests, relevant experience, and fit with the laboratory.
2. A current curriculum vitae (CV).
3. Contact information for three professional references.