Postdoctoral Fellow or PhD Positions in Al and Machine Learning for Vaccine Development

The COBRA Lab at the University of Alberta is seeking multiple highly motivate Postdoctoral Fellows/PhD students to join a cutting-edge research project focused on applying artificial intelligence (Al) and machine learning to vaccine development. This is part of a larger multidisciplinary effort aimed at creating a one-of-a-kind pipeline for predicting vaccine efficacy and minimising adverse outcomes.

Project Overview: You will play a key role in developing Al-assisted models to compare and predict the efficacy of various vaccines. The goal is to utilise big data generated from pre-clinical models to build machine learning algorithms that optimise vaccine choice and guide future vaccine development efforts.

Key Responsibilities:
* Analyse and integrate biological datasets, including immune responses, antigen distribution, and vaccine safety profiles.
* Develop and implement machine learning models to
* (1) predict the best vaccine candidates based on a set outcome.
* (2) predict the minimal set of assays needed for future vaccine characterization and comparison.
* (3) calculate the statistical similarities between any new antigen candidate and the antigens used for training.
* (4) incorporate learning feedback in the model to improve over time with new data.
* Collaborate with immunologists, virologists, biologists, and other Al experts to optimise and validate models.
* Present research findings at conferences and contribute to high-impact publications.

Required Qualifications:
* For Postdoctoral Fellow: PhD in computer science, bioinformatics, machine learning, or a related field
* For PhD Students: A Master's degree in a related field or exceptional undergraduates with experience in Al or computational biology.
* Previous research experience in a related field is an asset.
* Strong proficiency in machine learning frameworks and programming languages.
* Experience in biological data analysis and/or bioinformatics is highly desirable.
* Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

What We Offer:
* A fully funded, 4-year position in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.
* Access to state-of-the-art computational and biological research infrastructure.
* Opportunities to work with leading experts in Al, immunology, and vaccine research.
* A chance to contribute to research with real-world applications in public health and pandemic preparedness.

Location: COBRA Lab, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada

How to Apply: Send your CV, a cover letter detailing your research interests and experience, and contact information for two referees  by November 15,
2024. PhD candidates, please submit a copy of your BSc and MSc transcripts as well.