PhD Position in Digital Twins of Embryonic Development

Developing mathematical and computational models of mouse and human development. You will:

• develop data-based, mechanistic models and simulations of tissue development
• integrate quantitative imaging data from experimental collaborators into your models
• publish your results and present them at international conferences
• contribute to the group's open-source simulation tools and to teaching

During the PhD you may also work with finite element methods (e.g. COMSOL) and C++ software.

The Computational Biology Group (Prof Dagmar Iber) at D-BSSE develops digital twins of embryonic development using image-based mechanistic modelling and simulation.

Organogenesis, the formation of organs during embryonic development, depends on tightly coordinated cell signalling, growth and mechanics. Our group combines quantitative imaging data with mathematical and computational models to understand how tissues self-organise and how this process goes wrong in disease. We work closely with experimental collaborators and develop open-source simulation tools.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.

• A self-motivated candidate who is enthusiastic about developing data-based mathematical models in developmental biology. The position suits someone with training in biology, mathematical modelling and scientific computing.

• A Master's degree

• A solid understanding of developmental, cell and molecular biology, and the ability to interpret experimental and imaging data

• Experience in mathematical modelling, for example with ordinary or partial differential equations, dynamical systems or stochastic models, gained through coursework, a thesis or a project

• Programming experience in a language such as Matlab, Julia, Python or R

• Good written and spoken English

• Prior experience with finite element methods (e.g. COMSOL) and C++ software is not required.