Translational Modeling and Simulation Contractor

SUMMARY:

- We seek a highly motivated, detail oriented individual to assist in the development and implementation of various mathematical models for biological systems, ranging from pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic models describing drug concentration - response relationships to systems level Pathway models.
- This individual will be responsible for transforming raw pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic data, or data captured from the literature, into appropriate formats for existing mathematical modelling software and perform preliminary analysis, including plotting of time series and calculation of basic statistics.
- With guidance, he/she will implement the model(s) and capture output plots and summary statistics from the model analysis.
- Additionally, this individual will assist in the implementation of Pathway (systems pharmacology) models.
- The models will be developed using a combination of existing internal knowledge and public information, including models that have been previously implemented and are already available.
- Modification of these previously characterized Pathway models for novel targets and intervention modalities may also be undertaken.
- Literature searches and analysis of literature data are also part of this position's responsibilities.
- Work will primarily (but not exclusively) be in the area of translational oncology.
- This individual will work with experienced modelers that will in turn guide the application of these models in existing projects in early discovery.

SKILLS:

QUALIFICATIONS:

- B.S. or higher in engineering, applied mathematics, pharmacology/pharmacokinetics, systems biology, or related discipline
- Understanding of modelling with differential equations and techniques for modelling dynamical systems, including eg network analysis and Pathway analysis
- Familiarity with spreadsheet software (Excel, GraphPad Prism, JMP, or similar software), to rapidly transform, plot and analyze data
- Working knowledge of programming in MATLAB, Octave, R or other Matrix language
- Attention to detail and an aptitude to work independently, yet when necessary willing and able to seek knowledge and guidance from others.

ADDITIONAL SKILLS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS ARE PREFERRED:

- Some experience in building data driven computer models for real-world applications, eg population dynamics, systems biology
- Basic understanding of cancer molecular biology; other, related biology areas will also be considered, eg inflammation
- Experience with modelling or Matrix language software used in pharmaceutical research, eg NONMEM, SAAM II, MONOLIX, Berkeley Madonna or similar
- Direct experience in modelling intra-cellular signalling pathways for oncology applications
- Basic understanding of in vitro/cellular experimentation techniques, eg Western Blots, mass spectrometry
- Working knowledge of numerical implementation issues for differential equations
- Working knowledge of Simbiology or equivalent dynamic Pathway analysis tool
- Strong communication skills and the willingness and ability to work well with a variety of individuals, ranging from modelling and simulation experts to biologists and drug disposition scientists.
- MS Excel