Scientific Computing Associate - Data-Driven Equation Discovery

About the Role:

The Scientific Computing Associate (SCA) position represents an alternative to traditional scientific roles (e.g. postdoc) and provides an ideal environment to establish a career in computational research or software engineering. The position aims at developing qualifications and experience in computational research and professional software engineering in a research environment that enables the candidate to pursue their future career in science or industry. The SCA position is a time-limited appointment for 24 months, with discretionary renewal for a final 12-month term (maximally 36 months in total.)

We are seeking a talented and motivated candidate with experience in computational modeling (ideally with expertise in implementing computational schemes for ODE and/or PDE based models) and machine learning methods.The goal is to discover governing equations from experimental data to generate mathematical models of cellular signaling dynamics. You will help design algorithms for data-driven model discovery, test proposed algorithms in computational simulations, and collaborate closely with biologists to propose experimental tests of models in an iterative loop. On this project, you will be working in Scientific Computing with Michael Innerberger, reporting to Stephan Preibisch and collaborating closely with the Sgro lab, as well as the Beyene lab and others at Janelia who generate imaging data of cellular signaling. This project offers a rich, collaborative environment with mentorship from experts in both biological imaging and machine learning. Knowledge of fluid dynamics and biochemical reaction dynamics is a bonus, but not necessary.

What We Provide:

• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits
• The opportunity to engage with world-class researchers, software engineers and AI/ML experts, contribute to impactful science, and be part of a dynamic community committed to advancing humanity's understanding of fundamental scientific questions.
• Experience building and managing scientific collaborations
• A supportive training environment with ample opportunities to participate in scientific workshops and conferences
• Amenities that enhance work-life balance, such as on-site childcare, free gyms, available on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and convenient shuttle bus service to Janelia from the Washington D.C. metro area.

What You'll Do:

• Apply and extend methods for discovering governing equations from experimental data
• Design and run simulations to test proposed equations
• Explore and analyze microscopy data with data science and machine learning methods
• Collaborate closely with experimentalists to test proposed mathematical models
• Collaborate and bring your expertise to larger projects across labs at Janelia
• Assist in preparing publications sharing your research findings

What You Bring:

• A Ph.D. in computer science, mathematics, or a related field with relevant expertise
• Experience with computational modeling, ideally with implementing computational schemes for ODE and / or PDE based models
• Ideally experience with machine learning methods for identifying governing equations from experimental observations (e.g., https://github.com/dynamicslab/pysindy)
• Strong communication skills
• Enthusiasm to learn new skills, apply your expertise creatively to new projects, and work collaboratively within and across labs

Physical Requirements:

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

Compensation Range
$76,340.00 (minimum) - $95,400.00 (midpoint) - $124,080.00 (maximum)

Pay Type:
Annual

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

Client-provided location(s): Ashburn, VA

Job ID: HHMI-R-3949

Employment Type: OTHER

Posted: 2025-11-08T19:56:27