PhD Position in Structural Bioinformatics

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We are looking for a PhD student in Structural Bioinformatics – Exploring Biomolecular Structures and Dynamics with AI and AlphaFold.



Join our research group at Linköping University, led by Professor Björn Wallner, for a PhD position in Structural Bioinformatics. We are seeking a dedicated candidate with a passion for structural biology, computational research, and artificial intelligence.

Your work assignments

We are focused on understanding biomolecular structures, their dynamics, and ensembles at the molecular level. As part of our team, you will develop computational approaches to analyze and predict protein structures, incorporating experimental data to enhance our models. A key component of this project is utilizing AI, particularly AlphaFold, to optimize and enhance our structural predictions and understand the dynamic nature of biomolecules.

As a PhD candidate, you will:


• Utilize computational methods, AI techniques, and tools like AlphaFold to analyze and model biomolecular structures, dynamics, and ensembles.
• Expand on our work that achieved top-1 rank in CASP15 and improved its performance using sampling techniques.
• Develop algorithms and software for predicting protein structures, protein-protein interactions, protein-ligand binding, and integrating experimental data to refine models.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams of experts in computational biology, biophysics, biochemistry, structural biology, and artificial intelligence.
• Share your research findings through scientific publications and conferences.

As a PhD student, you devote most of your time to doctoral studies and the research projects of which you are part. Your work may also include teaching or other departmental duties, up to a maximum of 20% of full-time.

Your qualifications
You have a Master’s degree in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Chemical Biology, or a related field with a minimum of 240 credits, at least 60 of which must be in advanced courses. Alternatively, you have gained essentially corresponding knowledge in another way.


• Knowledge of AI and machine learning techniques, with experience in their application to structural bioinformatics or related areas.
• Familiarity with the AlphaFold platform and its applications in protein structure prediction.
• Proficiency in programming languages, preferably Python and/or C++.
• Experience of BASH and command line.
• Experience with molecular modeling and simulation software, such as GROMACS, NAMD, or Rosetta.
• Background in structural biology, molecular modeling, protein dynamics, and understanding of ensembles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good written and oral communication skills in English.

Your workplace

The position is placed in the Structural Bioinformatics Group at the Bioinformatics Division, IFM (Department of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) at Linköping University. The group is composed of dedicated and motivated researchers, including PhD students, postdocs, and senior scientists, all committed to advancing the field of structural bioinformatics. The team emphasizes mentorship and professional development, providing personalized guidance and support to help researchers reach their full potential.

As a part of the Structural Bioinformatics Group, you will have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in a supportive and inspiring environment. You will be surrounded by like-minded individuals who are passionate about using computational methods and AI to solve complex problems in structural biology and make a lasting impact on our understanding of life at the molecular level.

The employment

When taking up the post, you will be admitted to the program for doctoral studies. More information about the doctoral studies at each faculty is available at Doctoral studies at Linköping University

The employment has a duration of four years’ full-time equivalent. You will initially be employed for a period of one year. The employment will subsequently be renewed for periods of maximum duration two years, depending on your progress through the study plan. The employment may be extended up to a maximum of five years, based on the amount of teaching and departmental duties you have carried out. Further extensions can be granted in special circumstances.

Starting date by agreement.

Salary and employment benefits

The salary of PhD students is determined according to a locally negotiated salary progression.

More information about employment benefits at Linköping University is available here.

Union representatives
Information about union representatives, see Help for applicants.

Application procedure

Apply for the position by clicking the “Apply” button below. Your application must reach Linköping University no later than 26th May 2023.

Applications and documents received after the date above will not be considered.

We welcome applicants with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives - diversity enriches our work and helps us grow. Preserving everybody's equal value, rights and opportunities is a natural part of who we are. Read more about our work with: Equal opportunities.

We look forward to receiving your application!


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