Computational Biology - Postdoctoral Researcher

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Are you interested in joining some of the brightest talent in the world to strengthen the United States’ security? Come join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for BIG ideas that make our world a better place.

We are dedicated to fostering a culture that values individuals, talents, partnerships, ideas, experiences, and different perspectives, recognizing their importance to the continued success of the Laboratory’s mission.

Pay Range

$9,907 monthly

Note: This is a two-year Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years.

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher to conduct research in the areas of computational systems biology. This research will involve development and use of detailed system-level models of metabolism in microbial communities and development of novel constraint-based modeling methods.  These models and tools will be used to examine the biochemical mechanisms of intercellular interactions. This research could involve development of multiple types of models including genome-scale steady state models, reaction-transport dynamic models, and some ML models.  Some of the modeling efforts involve use of LLNL’s high-performance computing. The position is part of a larger project aiming to develop comprehensive understanding of the systems level resource allocation consequences of microscale symbioses between microbes and bioenergy and bioproduct relevant crops (https://bio-sfa.llnl.gov). The purpose of this appointment is to promote cutting-edge science and requires day-to-day interactions with experimental biologists.  This position is in the Biochemical and Biophysical Systems group of the Biosciences and Biotechnology Division. 

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

You will 

• Conduct research in computational microbiology in the areas of microbial ecology and microbial community engineering.
• Develop genome-scale models of metabolism in bacteria and algae.
• Develop spatially multiscale dynamic reaction and transport models of biophysical systems.
• Investigate the system-level underpinnings of processes involved in symbiotic interactions between algae and bacteria in co-cultured communities. 
• Examining interaction between microbes and the surrounding medium using methods such as dynamic flux balance analysis and flux sampling.
• Contribute to the conception, design and execution of experiments and in silico analyses to address defined problems.
• Communicate with experimental biologists for systems biology studies.
• Develop new computational tools for high performance computing studies.
• Work in a collaborative multidisciplinary team environment to accomplish goals.
• Publish research in peer-reviewed journals and present research at conferences.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Recent PhD in microbiology, bioengineering, computer science, chemistry/biochemistry, physics or related field.
• Demonstrated understanding of the concepts of microbial physiology (particularly metabolism), systems biology and dynamics of multi-cellular communities.
• Previous experience in mathematical modeling of networks.
• Experience in bioinformatics and computational analyses.
• Familiarity with system-level modeling methods like FBA and tools like COBRA.
• Demonstrated effective communication skills through publication of journal articles and presentations at seminars and scientific meetings.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with desire and ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.  

Qualifications We Desire

• Familiarity with programming for parallel computing.
• Experience using tools of linear programming and operations research.

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2025 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Our values - visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values

Security Clearance

None required.  However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  (This process does not apply to foreign nationals.) 

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities.  The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position.  To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

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