Bioinformatics, Mathematical modelling and computer simulations New Zealand

April 23, 2008

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One of the great challenges of the post genomic era is to understand how
the interaction of complex biological processes is coordinated within
cells. By combining experimental approaches with mathematical modelling
we can provide novel insights into the regulation of biological
processes and predict the potential consequences of altering substrate
levels and pathways.

This PhD project will focus on modelling the production of different
steroid hormones during pregnancy. The ultimate goal of this project is
to create a mathematical model that describes the regulation of and
complex interaction among intermediate substrates in the foetal and
placental steroid hormone synthesis pathways. The mathematical model is
expected to improve our understanding of how changes in the levels of
intermediate substrates affect the different steroid synthetic pathways
that are operating in the placenta and in the foetus. This will help us
to understand how placenta and foetus co-ordinate the synthesis of the
different hormones necessary for pregnancy success and provide insight
into how perturbations of steroid metabolism ultimately affect the
viability of the foetus and, subsequently, the long-term health of the
offspring.

The student will be part of a multidisciplinary international team. This
theoretical project will use biological expertise and data generated in
the laboratories of AgResearch’s Reproductive Technologies Group
(Hamilton, New Zealand) and from INRA in Jouy en Josas, France.

The successful candidate will extend his/hers skills in mathematical
modelling and computer simulations to describe the performance of
complex systems and obtain experience in epigenetics and systems
biology. These are highly sought-after skills in the interface between
mathematics, physics and the life sciences.

We are seeking enthusiastic and talented graduates who wish to take
advantage of this exciting opportunity to contribute to the development
of systems biology in New Zealand. We would particularly like to hear
from applicants with at least a second honours degree in a subject with
a strong applied mathematics content such as physics, mathematics,
statistics or engineering and a demonstrated interest in biology or
biochemistry; experience with mathematical modelling in the life
sciences is an advantage. Good written and verbal communication skills
and a high level of motivation and commitment are required.

This PhD is funded by the National Research Centre for Growth and
Development (NRCGD) and is based at AgResearch’s theoretical biology
group in Hamilton, NZ.

The position is open until a suitable candidate has been found.

Contact tanya.soboleva@agresearch.co.nz or
anette.becher@agresearch.co.nz for further details.

S. Anette Becher, D.Phil.
Section Manager – Bioinformatics, Mathematics & Statistics
T +64 3 489 9028
M +64 29 489 9081
E Anette.becher@agresearch.co.nz

AgResearch Limited
Invermay Agricultural Centre
Puddle Alley, Private Bag 50034, Mosgiel, New Zealand
T +64 3 489 3809 F +64 3 489 3739 www.agresearch.co.nz

Farming Food and Health. First
Te Ahuwhenua Te Kai me te Whai Ora. Tuatahi

Scholarship Tags: Bioinformatics, computer simulations, Mathematical modelling, New Zealand