The Position

The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST; see www.oist.jp) is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding (OIST campus video tour). There are no academic departments, which facilitates multidisciplinary research. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration. English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research.

Position Summary:

The Biological Complexity Unit at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), Japan, headed by Prof. Simone Pigolotti, is seeking to hire two outstanding experimentalists (one postdoc and one lab technician). The research unit studies biological systems using quantitative biophysical methods. In particular, we study the dynamics of bacterial DNA replication using DNA sequencing of growing cultures. Please see our website https://groups.oist.jp/bcu/research for more information. The two positions are part of an effort to start a wet lab that will complement the unit's existing theoretical activity.

Ideal candidates should have a Ph.D. in experimental biophysics, molecular/evolutionary biology or related topics, excellent experimental skills, independence, and capacity to work in a group that combines experiments and theory. Experience in bioinformatics and in our specific research topics are added values.

Postdoctoral/technician positions are usually held for three years. OIST is an equal opportunity employer providing competitive working conditions, an international, interdisciplinary research environment in a unique location and state-of-the-art facilities.

Responsibilities

To actively contribute to the start-up of the experimental activity of the Biological Complexity Unit at OIST. To carry out experimental research. To actively collaborate with the unit and participate in its other scientific activities. To act as a mentor for junior scientists.