Postdoc in theory and simulation of active matter, cell and tissue mechanobiology in Barcelona

The group on “Mechanics of soft and living interfaces” (https://www.lacan.upc.edu/mechanics-of-soft-and-living-interfaces/) lead by Marino Arroyo (https://www.lacan.upc.edu/arroyo/) is looking for a highly motivated and creative postdoctoral researcher to study the mechanical organization of epithelial cells and tissues, and how this understanding can lead to a precise control of tissue structure, mechanical properties, and dynamics. The ultimate goal is to predict the behaviour of living matter, manipulate it, and use it to build new bio-inspired technologies. You will develop theories and computations to understand cell and tissue mechanobiology at different scales, ranging from the molecular constituents of mechanically relevant cellular structures to the collective behaviour of epithelial monolayers. The specific focus of research can be adjusted depending on your previous experience and interests. This research is supported by a grant from the European Research Council.

You will work in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, in very close collaboration with experimental colleagues at IBEC in Barcelona and elsewhere. You will have access to state-of-the-art computing facilities, a generous travel allowance, and will be given the freedom to develop your own ideas and collaborate within the group and with other groups.

Towards addressing fundamental questions about the self-organization and dynamics of living cellular materials, this researcher involves developing and combining several of the following tools:

• Theoretical modelling of mechano-chemical problems out-of-equilibrium to describe active matter

• Advanced finite element discretization methods and high-performance computing

• Quantitative analysis of experiments on cell and tissue dynamics (image analysis, force-inference inverse problems)

The successful candidate will hold a PhD in biophysics, biomechanics, soft matter physics, or mechanics, with a track record of significant contributions in his/her field. Previous exposure to mechanobiology, computational mechanics or programming is desirable but not required. However, willingness and motivation to expand your expertise by reaching out to other disciplines is required. You are expected to be proficient in English.

Besides Skype interviews, it is possible to arrange on-site visits to the lab and the campus in Barcelona. The starting date is flexible during the fall of 2019. We offer initially a one-year contract, renewable to a second year.

Interested applicants are encouraged to send as soon as possible a CV with a list of at up to 3 references and a very concise statement describing your past research experience and your interests. This and specific inquiries should be addressed to Prof. Marino Arroyo (marino.arroyo@upc.edu) with “Postdoc applicant-2019” in the subject line.