AI Cell Physiology Modeling Postdoctoral Fellow

About the role

Berkeley Lab’s Biological Systems and Engineering Division has an opening for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join the Cellular Intelligence and BioAnalytics (CIBA) Group within the Advanced Bio Process Development Unit (ABPDU). In this role you will develop AI-driven predictive metabolic models of cell physiology, metabolism, and functional behavior. You will receive hands-on training in mammalian cell culture, micro-respirometry, stable isotope tracing, and associated biochemical assays, gaining a first-principles understanding of the biological systems being modeled. You will maintain cell lines, conduct targeted experiments, collaborate with experimentalists, and integrate datasets to advance predictive models of cellular metabolism and function.

Training begins at UCLA for 3–4 months, followed by relocation to Berkeley Lab for the remainder of the appointment. Alternatively, immediate relocation to Berkeley Lab may be possible, with periodic 4–5 day visits to UCLA for training and/or collaboration as project needs dictate. The anticipated start date is October 1, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Develop research expertise by contributing to project goals, engaging with collaborators, generating scientific insights, and progressively taking ownership of defined research activities under mentorship.
• Develop, implement, train, and validate machine learning and deep learning models for AI-driven prediction of cell physiology, metabolism, and functional behavior, with input from the research team.
• Participate in hands-on research training at UCLA, including mammalian cell culture, micro-respirometry, stable isotope tracing, and associated biochemical assays, to build a strong practical understanding of relevant cell biology experiments.
• Conduct targeted experiments and collaborate closely with experimentalists at UCLA to integrate experimental datasets generated at UCLA and LBNL into AI-driven predictive models.
• Maintain well organized, thorough, and accurate laboratory documentation.
• Prepare and publish rigorous research results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Provide regular written and oral progress updates and facilitate technical discussions within the team.
• Prepare and present research findings at conferences and meetings with collaborators across industry, academia, and national laboratories.

Requirements

• A recent Ph.D. (within the last 1–2 years) in Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, Systems Biology, Bioengineering, Computational Biology, or a related discipline.
• Strong computational and machine learning skills, including research experience applying AI/ML models using complex experimental biology datasets.
• Demonstrated understanding of Cell Biology through academic coursework, research experience, or wet-lab experience in Life-Sciences or related disciplines.
• Strong willingness and ability to participate in hands-on training onsite at UCLA to acquire wet-lab experimental skills, including cell culture, micro-respirometry, and biochemical assays.
• Strong analytical skills including the ability to identify problems, troubleshoot, and demonstrate good judgement in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including experience documenting research activities, analyzing results, and presenting findings for a variety of audiences.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills, including experience collaborating with an interdisciplinary research team in a multi-disciplinary scientific or production environment.

Benefits

• Exceptional health benefits.
• Generous paid time off, sick time, and holidays.
• Culture emphasizing belonging and investment in teams.

Pay

The salary range is $8,266 – $9,234 monthly ($99,192 – $110,808 annually), with a starting salary of $8,266 monthly ($99,192 annually) or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract; each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral and/or related research experience.

Schedule

This is a full-time, exempt from overtime pay, 2-year Postdoctoral Fellow appointment with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance, continuing availability of funds, and operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. The position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.