Details Title HMS - Postdoctoral Fellow in Systems Biology School Harvard Medical School Department/Area Systems Biology Position Description We invite applicants for a postdoctoral fellow position in the Fontana lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston Massachusetts. The work of the Fontana lab is focused on developing and applying software for modeling combinatorial systems of molecular interaction in chemistry and in cellular signaling. We are also applying mathematical formalism to reason about functional organization in biology. We welcome applications from recent PhD graduates who bring a mathematical background and proven expertise to bear on our research, especially with regard to understanding the concept of “closure” in living systems. Closure occurs when the generative processes induced by the components of a system permit the continuous regeneration of these same components. Because of the history of this subject, we are especially interested in candidates with an expertise in category theory. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Fontana to develop an independent research project within the scope of applying category theory to biological organization. In addition to carrying out theoretical research, the successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the writing of grants and manuscripts, participate in teaching and mentoring of lab members as needed, and otherwise contribute to overall lab operations and collaborative environment. Salary and Benefits This position is salaried and benefits eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines. With this appointment, you are represented by the Harvard Academic Workers ( HAW ) – UAW for purposes of collective bargaining and matters affecting your compensation and working conditions. Basic Qualifications + Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in computer science and/or mathematics + Working knowledge in category theory Additional Qualifications Special Instructions Required documents: + Curriculum Vitae + Statement of Research for PhD work + Cover Letter describing your interest in the lab and initial ideas for new research directions or projects you could undertake in the lab. + Note with names and contact information for three people who have agreed to serve as your reference Please submit application documents through the ARIeS portal. Applications will be considered immediately. Selected candidates will be invited for in-person interviews involving a research presentation on past work. Expected Dates + Application deadline: September 30th, 2025 + Start date: The position is expected to start on or around October 6th 2025 with some flexibility. + Duration: This is a six (6) month term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding to support the position. Contact Information SB Hiring Team 200 Longwood Avenue Armenise Building 623 Boston MA, 02115 Contact Email jennie_epp@hms.harvard.edu Minimum Number of References Required 2 Maximum Number of References Allowed 4 Keywords EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity (https://hr.harvard.edu/sites/g/files/omnuum6281/files/2025-04/reaffirmation\_statement.pdf) policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy (https://provost.harvard.edu/sites/g/files/omnuum3356/files/2025-07/non-discrimination\_and\_anti-bullying\_policies.pdf) . Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination. Supplemental Questions