Assistant Project Scientist-Grandi 2026

The University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology invites applications for 1 full-time academic position in the Assistant Project Scientist series.

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Project Scientist to lead computational research aimed at defining the signaling mechanisms underlying atrial fibrogenesis and atrial fibrillation. The successful candidate will bring deep expertise in mathematical and computational modeling of biological systems. This includes logic-based and ODE-based network models, algorithm development, quantitative data integration, parameter optimization, sensitivity analysis, and clustering approaches. The candidate will integrate experimental and transcriptomic data from normal sinus rhythm and chronic atrial fibrillation samples to identify key regulatory mechanisms and therapeutic targets that regulate profibrotic remodeling. The candidate will be an integral member of our interactive and collaborative research team, contributing to scientific discussions, mentoring, and the development of independent research directions broadly related to cardiac electrophysiology, fibrosis, and arrhythmia mechanisms.

The duties and responsibilities of this position include: developing and refining computational models of cardiac fibroblast and atrial signaling networks; integrating literature-derived mechanisms with experimental and transcriptomic datasets; performing parameter estimation, model validation, and predictive analyses; identifying key regulatory nodes and signaling pathways relevant to atrial fibrosis and arrhythmogenesis; preparing figures, analyses, and written summaries for manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications; contributing to the design of collaborative validation studies with experimental partners; pursuing independent funding opportunities aligned with the candidate's research program; and maintaining the highest standards of scientific rigor, reproducibility, and collaborative scholarship within the laboratory environment.

Anticipated salary range for this position: $76,700-$97,600

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

RESEARCH (80%)

This position requires creative contributions to and collaborative development of an active research program investigating the signaling and regulatory mechanisms that drive atrial fibrosis and arrhythmia susceptibility. In consultation with the Principal Investigator, the candidate will help define research goals and lead the design of specific projects, including the selection, development, and implementation of appropriate computational and quantitative approaches. The candidate may supervise students or other trainees in technical aspects of the research, including model construction, data integration, troubleshooting, interpretation of findings, and design of follow-up studies. The candidate may also participate in collaborative projects with investigators within UC Davis and at other institutions.

The candidate is required to have theoretical and practical knowledge of computational modeling, systems biology, and quantitative analysis of biological networks relevant to cardiovascular physiology and disease. Particularly desirable is expertise in network-based and differential equation-based modeling, integration of experimental and omics datasets, and analysis of high-dimensional data, including transcriptomic and single-cell datasets. Experience relevant to fibroblast biology, profibrotic signaling, and atrial remodeling is highly desirable. The candidate must be able to independently develop and interpret computational models that yield mechanistic insight and generate experimentally testable predictions. The candidate will be expected to publish results, assist in preparation of grant applications, contribute new research directions aligned with the laboratory's broader goals, and assist the Principal Investigator in mentoring graduate and undergraduate trainees.

Publication

The candidate will publish research in peer-reviewed journals either independently or in collaboration with the PI or other members of the research team.

Grant Acquisition

The candidate will assist in writing proposals for funding from federal and state agencies and other funding organizations. The candidate will prepare and assist in the preparation of reports as required by granting agencies and prepare modifications of budgets and other grant components as needed. In consultation with the PI, the candidate will develop and submit independent grant applications relevant to the candidate's career stage and research program.

Safety and Regulatory Expectations

The candidate is expected to maintain the highest regulatory and safety standards within the laboratory environment, including strict adherence to laboratory safety regulations, and maintaining detailed documentation of compliance where appropriate.

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY (10%)

The candidate will participate in professional societies and conferences relevant to their specific field of and will serve as a reviewer of research proposals and scientific publications as appropriate. The candidate will attend seminars to present research results and may give oral presentations to public and professional interest groups. When appropriate, the candidate may coordinate and/or give presentations at seminars, laboratory meetings or educational functions. The candidate may serve on national or international grant review panels as appropriate.

UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (10%)

The candidate will engage in public outreach activities that include presenting scientific research results to the general public and providing relevant advice to individuals and public agencies. The candidate will engage in university service activities such as guest lecturing and committee service. Teaching classroom courses is not an expectation of this position. However, the candidate is expected to supervise graduate and undergraduate students in the laboratory.

For the full position description and to apply, visit http://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07597.

* PhD in Computer Science, Computational Biology, Bioengineering, Biomedical Sciences, Physiology, or a related quantitative field.

* At least 3 years of postdoctoral research experience, with a strong record of scholarship in computational modeling of biological systems and cardiovascular disease mechanisms, as supported by recent publications and scientific presentations.

* Demonstrated expertise in mathematical and computational modeling, including ordinary differential equation-based models, network/signaling models, algorithm development, and quantitative analysis of complex biological systems.

* Experience with quantitative analysis of biological data, including model fitting, validation, sensitivity analysis, clustering, and integration of transcriptomic or single-cell datasets.

* Demonstrated ability to design, plan, and execute independent research projects.

* Experience in writing research papers and grant applications.

* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

* Ability to work both independently and as a team player.

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

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