APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: June 25th 2025
Human Technopole (HT) is an interdisciplinary life science research institute, created and supported by the Italian Government, with the aim of developing innovative strategies to improve human health. HT is composed of five Centers: Neurogenomics, Computational Biology, Structural Biology, Genomics, and Health Data Science. The Centers work together to enable interdisciplinary research and to create an open, collaborative environment that will help promote life science research both nationally and internationally.
The Pinheiro Lab in the Computational Biology Research Centre at Human Technopole, led by Dr. Fernanda Pinheiro, integrates theoretical and experimental research to develop a predictive framework for evolutionary processes under ecological complexity grounded on models of cell metabolism. We are a hybrid theoretical and experimental lab with a strong interest in understanding antibiotic resistance evolution in complex ecologies including microbial communities where many bacteria interact. We combine systems biology approaches, evolutionary modeling, computational methods, data analysis, and data from evolution experiments, establishing a strong dialog between theory and experiments: We use theory to identify interesting regimes that can optimize experimental designs and biology to motivate new theoretical methods.
Internship Project Description
The Pinheiro Lab is seeking a motivated postgraduate researcher for an extracurricular internship, focusing on the development of mechanistic models for microbial evolution in complex ecologies. We encourage applicants with a strong quantitative background to join our interdisciplinary team, working at the intersection of systems biology, ecology, and evolution. The selected candidate will collaborate closely with researchers from various fields to explore innovative solutions in microbial evolution.
Key tasks and activities
Assist in the development of mechanistic models for microbial evolution in complex ecologies (e.g., in response to antibiotic challenge, in interacting microbial communities, for predator-prey systems);
Collaborate with experimental group members to support the design of experiments, data analysis, and testing of theoretical hypotheses;
Develop critical thinking and gain insight into scientific research by contributing to discussions, presentations, and scientific writing under the guidance of senior researchers;
Participate in enhancing the group’s network of internal and external collaborations.
Essential requirements
A Master's (or equivalent) in a quantitative field (Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, or related area) with an interest in biological systems.
Fluency in English - HT is an international research institute.
Preferred requirements
Strong analytical and numerical skills (experience with any programming language is welcome, and training will be provided if needed).
Comfort with working with biological datasets (previous learning experience is a plus, but not required).
Organizational and social skills
Ability to interact effectively in an interdisciplinary environment with other team members and teams, and work synergistically to drive projects forward.
Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment and to work independently;
Ability to work in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
Highly curious, creative, and ambitious individuals that are open to pursue new theoretical avenues, willing to develop and implement new methods, with a strong interest in conceptual research.
Excellent communication and team working skills.
Application Instructions
a CV.
a motivation letter in English.
For specific enquires concerning the role only, please contact the Talent & Acquisition Team, [email protected] (this email address should not be used to send applications).
Why Human Technopole
HT seeks scientific excellence, we recruit the best scientific talents through international, open calls.
Our working environment is international, friendly and inclusive. Our scientists work together across disciplines on research topics of biomedical relevance, leveraging synergies between their diverse skillsets and methodological approaches.
We believe that highly diverse teams yield the best and most innovative results.
We engage in outward-facing scientific activities aimed at benefiting the national and international research community. Training is also at the heart of our activity, with initiatives and opportunities for our staff, including scientific courses, conferences and workshops.
What we offer
Meal delivery service.
Guest House upon availability, if needed.
Access to all training initiatives targeted to HT scientists.
International research environment with networking and training opportunities.
Hands-on experience with real-world research projects addressing compelling scientific questions and applying state-of-the-art technologies.
Supervision by experienced researchers providing personalized feedback and career advice.
Special consideration will be given to candidates who are part of the protected categories list, according to L. 68/99.
Number of positions offered: 1
Internship duration: up to 12 months.
Reimbursement.
The position is based in Milan.
The Foundation reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to extend, suspend, modify, revoke, or cancel this job posting without giving rise to any rights or claims whatsoever in favor of the candidates; the Foundation reserves, however, the right not to proceed with the awarding of the above-described assignment due to the effect of supervening regulatory provisions and/or obstructive circumstances.
