Postdoc Pönisch Lab

TL;DR

Postdoc Pönisch Lab (Computational Biology): Develop morphometric approaches to study shape dynamics of tissues and organoids during development and disease with an accent on AI-assisted segmentation, registration, and theoretical modeling. Focus on analyzing large imaging datasets and building models to uncover principles of left-right symmetry and organoid dynamics as disease predictors.

Location: Based in Milan, Italy

Salary: €40,000

Company

Rapidly expanding life science institute in Milan where international researchers and cutting-edge technologies accelerate biomedical discovery.

What you will do

• Analyze large imaging datasets of developing tissues using AI-assisted segmentation, registration, and morphometrics to extract quantitative shape dynamics features.
• Develop theoretical models of dynamical systems to uncover principles governing tissue shape dynamics.
• Investigate left-right symmetry emergence in development and organoid shape dynamics as disease predictors.
• Integrate imaging analysis, statistics, and modeling in collaboration with experimental partners.
• Contribute to interdisciplinary research at the physics-data science-biology interface.

Requirements

• PhD in theoretical physics, applied mathematics, computer science, engineering, data science or related discipline
• Experience in quantitative image analysis using AI and machine learning
• Experience modeling dynamical systems with statistical physics, stochastic processes, information theory, or control theory
• Experience in MATLAB/Python or other scientific programming
• Fluent in English

Nice to have

• Experience with large biological datasets in cell/developmental biology
• Scientific visualization and data presentation skills
• Track record securing independent research fellowships

Culture & Benefits

• International and dynamic workplace with collaborative lab culture
• Competitive welfare, flexible working policies, and relocation support to Italy with tax benefits
• Work-life balance and parental support initiatives
• Career development through training, mentoring, and learning opportunities
• Cutting-edge facilities and supportive interdisciplinary group

Hiring process

• Submit CV, motivation letter in English, and contact details of two referees
• 4-year contract under CCNL Chimico Farmaceutico, Level B2
• Application closing date: 04.05.2026