Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Computational Biophysics & AI4Science NC State University, USA

Summary

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at North Carolina State University seeks a qualified Postdoctoral Research Scholar to join the Lin Research Group. This role focuses on advancing computational studies of biomolecular structure, dynamics, interactions, and functions. The position bridges physics-based simulations and AI-enabled modeling of biomolecular systems (such as protein–nucleic acid interactions, RNA dynamics, biomolecular phase separation, and chromatin organization) in close collaboration with experimental research groups.

Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Computational Biophysics & AI4Science NC State University, USA

Designation

Postdoctoral Research Scholar

Table

Research Area

Research Area: Integrating physics-based molecular simulations and AI-driven modeling to predict and analyze complex biomolecular structures, dynamics, and interactions.

• Biomolecular Simulation & Modeling: Advanced modeling, force-field or coarse-grained model development, and enhanced-sampling methods.
• AI4Science / Machine Learning: Development or adaptation of deep-learning architectures for biomolecular structure, dynamic prediction, or design.
• Biophysical Focus Areas: Protein–DNA/RNA recognition, aptamer design, RNA conformational ensembles, RNA–protein phase separation, and chromatin organization.

Location

Raleigh, North Carolina, USA (NC State University)

Eligibility/Qualification

Minimum Qualifications

• Degree Requirement: Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in Physics, Chemistry, Biophysics, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field (conferred before the employment start date and no more than 5 years prior to the appointment start date).
• Research Expertise Track (At least one required):
  1. Biomolecular Simulation Track: Expertise in advanced modeling and analysis, force-field or coarse-grained model development, or enhanced-sampling methods.
  2. AI4Science Track: Expertise in the development or rigorous adaptation of deep-learning methods for biomolecular prediction/design, backed by a strong algorithmic/quantitative foundation.
• Technical & Core Skills: Scientific programming, familiarity with molecular simulation and/or machine learning, statistical mechanics, HPC/GPU computing workflows, data visualization, reproducible software development, and scientific communication.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with proteins, nucleic acids, aptamers, chromatin, or biomolecular phase separation.
• Experience using molecular dynamics simulation engines (e.g., OpenMM, GROMACS, NAMD, LAMMPS).
• Proficiency in Python, C/C++, GPU/HPC computing, and deep-learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch).
• Record of peer-reviewed publications and documented open-source code/software development.

Job Description

• Conduct independent and collaborative research on biomolecular structure, dynamics, interactions, and functions.
• Develop, implement, and benchmark molecular simulation and/or deep-learning methods.
• Perform predictive modeling and design of protein–nucleic acid interactions and oligonucleotide aptamer binding in collaboration with experimental partners.
• Develop physics-based and AI-enabled models for chromatin organization, RNA dynamics, and phase separation.
• Maintain reproducible, well-documented software and workflows.
• Disseminate findings through peer-reviewed manuscripts, conference presentations, and open-source software.
• Participate in group meetings, mentor graduate and undergraduate students, and contribute to grant proposals and outreach.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must apply online through the NC State Job Portal and submit the following required materials:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Including a complete list of peer-reviewed publications and links to code repositories or research software (where available).
2. Cover Letter: Describing research accomplishments, alignment with the position’s research directions, preferred start date, future research interests, and a brief summary of a project showcasing relevant method/software contributions.
3. Reference Information: Contact details for at least three professional references.

Last Date for Apply

Open Until Filled

(Review of applications begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled).

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