Use computational modelling to uncover the mechanics of bacterial collective behaviour

Join a place where ambitious science thrives

Human Technopole (Milan) is a rapidly expanding life science institute where international researchers and cutting-edge technologies converge to accelerate biomedical discovery. Our mission is to transform bold scientific ideas into advances that improve human health.

Within this mission, the Pönisch Research Group, part of the Computational Biology Research Centre, develops theoretical and computational approaches to understand how biological systems change shape across scales. By combining physics, mathematics and data science, the group investigates the principles governing biological morphodynamics in close collaboration with experimental researchers.

We are seeking a highly motivated Intern to contribute to the development of computational models of Neisseria gonorrhoeae and investigate how the mechanics of type IV pili regulate bacterial migration and aggregation.

Your mission

As an Intern, you will have the opportunity to:

• Contribute to the development of computational models of bacterial migration and aggregation.
• Support the implementation and optimization of scientific simulation code.
• Assist in the analysis of simulation results using quantitative computational approaches.
• Participate in regular research group meetings, presenting your progress and discussing scientific findings.
• Work alongside experienced researchers in an interdisciplinary and international environment.

Grow your skills

You will enhance your scientific and professional skills by working with:

• Advanced computational modelling of biological systems.
• High-performance scientific programming and numerical simulations.
• Quantitative analysis of complex dynamical systems.
• Researchers with expertise in computational biology, biophysics and applied mathematics.
• An international and interdisciplinary research environment at the interface between theory and experimental biology.

Human Technopole supports career development through mentoring, scientific seminars and dedicated learning opportunities.

What you'll bring

We are looking for candidates with a strong quantitative background and an interest in computational modelling of biological systems.

Essential

• MSc degree (completed or close to completion) in Physics, Biophysics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science or another related quantitative discipline.
• Experience programming in C++, Python or MATLAB.
• Experience with numerical simulations and modelling of dynamical systems (e.g. ordinary or stochastic differential equations, agent-based or particle-based models).
• Good command of written and spoken English.

Preferred

• Experience with agent-based or particle-based simulations (e.g. Brownian Dynamics or Molecular Dynamics).
• Experience with code optimization and/or parallel computing.
• Background or interest in biophysics, soft matter physics or computational modelling of biological systems.

Organizational and interpersonal skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to an interdisciplinary research environment.
• Curiosity, critical thinking and willingness to learn.
• Commitment to working in a diverse, inclusive and international research setting.

At HT, your work will contribute to advancing our understanding of biological systems through innovative computational approaches addressing fundamental questions in life sciences.

Why Human Technopole

HT offers an international and dynamic workplace where researchers collaborate across disciplines to tackle ambitious scientific challenges. Interns benefit from close supervision by experienced scientists, access to training initiatives, networking opportunities and hands-on experience with cutting-edge computational research in a collaborative and inclusive environment.

How to apply

Submit:

• CV
• Motivation letter (in English)

For scientific enquiries regarding the position only, please contact the Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@fht.org (please do not use this email address to submit applications).

Internship duration: 6 months

Monthly reimbursement: €800 gross

Number of positions: 1

The position is based in Milan, Italy.

We strongly encourage applications from candidates belonging to protected categories (L. 68/99).