Research Associate in Chemical Engineering

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate (Postdoc) to develop a deep learning pipeline aimed at benchmarking alternative methods for representing proteins and protein surfaces. The Postdoc will join Dr. Camille Bilodeau’s research group in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Virginia and will collaborate closely with research partners within the department and at other institutions to lead and contribute to projects involving developing machine learning methods to predict protein properties, using molecular simulations to generate training data, and constructing software pipelines to interface the machine learning or molecular models with transport models.

Key Responsibilities

The Postdoc will play a critical role in advancing our understanding of protein representation in neural networks with an emphasis on surface-based representations and will develop approaches for interfacing deep learning models (trained on simulations and/or experiments) with transport models. Working collaboratively with faculty and research partners at UVA and other institutions, the Postdoc will take ownership of research activities while contributing to the broader mission of the group. Specific responsibilities include:

• Develop a python-based pipeline to generate machine learning inputs from protein sequence/structure data
• Develop a Pytorch-based pipeline to predict the properties of proteins based on a wide array of protein representations including both standard and custom representations
• Perform large scale molecular simulations to generate training data for deep learning models
• Construct an open-source python-based software package that allows pretrained models to be used in combination with transport models developed by collaborators
• Lead team meetings and provide regular updates to collaborators
• Synthesize and disseminate research findings through peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and presentations
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate students and contribute to an inclusive and collaborative research environment
• Contribute to proposal development and identification of new funding opportunities

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must have a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, computer science, or a closely related field by the appointment start date. Candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas will be given priority consideration:

• Deep learning
• Molecular simulations
• Biophysics of proteins
• Python-based coding/software development

The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research, communicate effectively across disciplinary boundaries, and work collaboratively with academic, government, and community partners. Experience mentoring students is a plus.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Apply online at https://jobs.virginia.edu/us and search for R0085707. and attach the following materials: (1) a cover letter, (2) a comprehensive curriculum vitae, and (3) contact information for three professional references (letters will be requested later). In your cover letter, please describe your research background and interests, how your expertise aligns with this position, and evidence of your ability to conduct independent research. If you have a manuscript currently under review or in preparation that is not yet publicly available, you are encouraged to submit it as an optional writing sample.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Review of applications will begin on August 7, 2026, but the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

The anticipated start date is September 15, 2026. A later start date may be accommodated.

This position is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for an additional one-year increment, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, contact Camille Bilodeau ( cur5wz@virginia.edu ).

For questions regarding the application process, contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at rkh6j@virginia.edu .

For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits .

Job Profile
J0267 - Research Associate - 12 Month

Career Stream and Level
No Career Stream-No Level

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .