Sustaining Innovation Postdoctoral Research Associate – Deep Learning Methods for Rapid Cryo-EM Pose Estimation
Astex Pharmaceuticals and IE University are offering a joint postdoctoral research associate position focused on developing advanced deep learning methods for rapid cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) pose estimation. This interdisciplinary project sits at the intersection of artificial intelligence, computer vision, structural biology, and computational imaging, aiming to improve 3D pose inference from low signal-to-noise cryo-EM images and enhance traditional reconstruction pipelines through AI-driven approaches.
The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research in single particle analysis (SPA), leveraging large-scale cryo-EM datasets and modern deep learning frameworks. The project builds upon recent cryoPARES methodologies and explores foundation-model and representation-learning strategies for cryo-EM data analysis using petabyte-scale datasets. The work has direct applications in structural biology and AI-enabled drug discovery, offering opportunities for high-impact publications and open-source software development.
Main responsibilities include developing novel deep learning algorithms for cryo-EM SPA, advancing AI-based 3D pose estimation methods for low-SNR imaging data, designing and training representation learning and foundation models for cryo-EM applications, publishing research findings, contributing to open-source software, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams across academia and industry. The position is based primarily in Cambridge, UK, with regular collaboration visits to Madrid, Spain.
Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent in a relevant quantitative or computational discipline (such as Computer Science, Mathematics, Computational Science, Artificial Intelligence, Physics, or Engineering), or have equivalent research experience. Strong expertise in cryo-EM SPA image processing and algorithm development, or experience in computer vision or deep learning using frameworks such as PyTorch, JAX, or TensorFlow, is required. Excellent programming skills in Python, familiarity with Git version control, and knowledge of C/C++ are desirable. Candidates must demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, communication and teamwork skills, ability to work in interdisciplinary and international environments, and scientific writing and publication experience. Excellent English language proficiency is required. Candidates must already hold the right to work in Spain or be EU nationals.
The position offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, hybrid and flexible working options, access to state-of-the-art cryo-EM infrastructure, collaboration with internationally recognized researchers and industry experts, excellent training and career development opportunities, and participation in high-impact interdisciplinary research. The selection process includes initial screening, evaluation of scientific background and technical expertise, assessment of alignment with project objectives, interviews, and final selection based on scientific excellence, technical skills, and collaborative potential.
To apply, submit your CV and cover letter by email to [email protected] and [email protected], with the subject line including the reference SIPD/0426. Applications must be submitted before midnight on 31 May 2026.
