BACKGROUND

Part of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), the European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI) is looking for a Senior Scientific Database Curator to be based in the Computational Neurology Group - led by Nicolas Le Novère - at the Genome Campus in Hinxton, Cambridge.

RESPONSIBILITIES

A consequence of the progressive rise of Systems Biology as a new paradigm in life science, is a fast increase of the number of quantitative models. BioModels Database (htt://www.ebi.ac.uk/biomodels/) is the reference database for annotated computational models of biological processes published in the literature.

BioModels Database is looking for a senior curator, who will verify the syntax and semantics of models submitted, the results of their simulation, and to thoroughly annotate them. In addition to the model checking, the curator will write documentation, user-manuals and tutorials, and provide training to users and curators worldwide. It is anticipated that during the course of his/her activity, the curator will acquire an incomparable master of quantitative modelling in Biology.

REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must hold a PhD or Masters in Biology, Physics or Mathematics. The curation of computational models necessitates an understanding of the biology, mathematics and computing methods used to generate them and candidates must be able to demonstrate this in their application. Applicants are required to have former experience in Computational Systems Biology, with a basic knowledge of chemical kinetics, differential calculus, and numerical analysis.

Experience of software used to develop models and run simulations is essential as well as experience of Linux/Unix and at least one scripting language (Perl, Python, Shell). The postholder will be required to interact with other members of the team, model submitters, tool developers and the users of the resources and is expected to have exceptional interpersonal skills. Excellent English language skills are essential in order to meet requirements for documentation and training.

TERMS

Benefits include 30 days annual leave, a health care and pension scheme and support to staff with dependent children. The Campus provides an excellent working environment, with car-share schemes, on-site and subsidised restaurant, café and gym.

An initial contract of 3 years will be offered to the successful candidate. This can be renewed, depending on circumstances at the time of review.

LOCALE

Hinxton, Cambridge, United Kingdom.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please send a CV (including names and addresses of referees) and covering letter, by email, quoting ref. no. BioCan/07/164 in the subject line, to: applications[at]ebi.ac.uk.