Doctoral student in AI-driven prediction of antimicrobial mechanisms of action Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden

Chalmers University of Technology invites applications for a fully funded doctoral student position in AI-driven prediction of antimicrobial mechanisms of action, based at the Division of Molecular Bioscience, Department of Life Sciences, Gothenburg, Sweden. This position is part of the prestigious Data-driven Life Science (DDLS) program, funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, aiming to recruit and train the next generation of computational life scientists. The DDLS program focuses on four strategic research areas: cell and molecular biology, evolution and biodiversity, precision medicine and diagnostics, and epidemiology and biology of infection.

The doctoral student will join the Antibiotic Research Group led by Associate Professor Michaela Wenzel and be integrated into the Computational Systems Medicine Group led by Annikka Polster. The research project, 'Towards a mechanism-aware multi-label prediction framework for antimicrobial peptides,' centers on using mechanistic data to connect AMP structure to function and activity. The project addresses a challenging data and modelling problem: building predictive frameworks when training labels are systematically mislabelled. AMPs are potent molecules with broad-spectrum antibacterial, antibiofilm, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic, and immunomodulatory properties, and are promising antibiotic alternatives due to their low propensity for resistance.

The team has access to three unique curated datasets combining multi-omics, microscopy, and spectroscopy data, providing a robust foundation for multi-label classification across heterogeneous biological classes. The doctoral student will focus on ontology-informed dataset integration, multi-label model development, systematic benchmarking, and biological validation. The work is primarily computational, with optional opportunities for experimental validation during model testing.

Applicants must hold a Master's degree (120 credits) or a Master’s degree (60 credits) in a life science or data science-related discipline, or a 4-year Bachelor’s degree if earned outside Sweden. Experience in data science, computational biology/medicine, bioinformatics, AI, or related areas is required. Programming skills are mandatory, and proof must be provided by the project start. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, an interdisciplinary and collaborative mindset, and the ability to work across disciplines are essential. Candidates with strong ML or data science backgrounds and limited bioscience experience are encouraged to apply; biological knowledge can be acquired during PhD coursework. Candidates without significant computational background will only be considered in exceptional cases.

The position is fully funded from the start, with a starting salary of 34,550 SEK per month (valid from May 25, 2025). The appointment is fixed-term for four years, with the possibility to teach up to 20%, extending the position up to five years. Doctoral studies require physical presence throughout the study period, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the study start date. Chalmers offers a dynamic and inspiring working environment, employee benefits, and support for settling in Sweden, including Swedish language courses.

To apply, submit your application in English as PDF files via the application form link. Include your CV, personal letter, motivation, and transcripts. Incomplete applications and applications sent by email will not be considered. References will be requested after the interview. The application deadline is 31 May, 2026, with interviews expected in June and a planned start date in October 2026. For questions, contact Associate Professor Michaela Wenzel at [email protected].

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