We are looking for one Specially Appointed Researcher (Full-Time) who can join the Yachie laboratory at PRIMe, Osaka University in Japan.

Premium Research Institute for Human Metaverse Medicine (PRIMe) has been selected as a research center in the 2022 World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI) sponsored by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) in Japan. This research institute aims at creating a new scientific field, Human Metaverse Medicine, in which two academic fields, human organoid-based biomedical science and information mathematical science, are combined to understand and provide solutions for modern diseases related to aging. The Yachie Laboratory of Creative Destruction Biology, combining synthetic biology, CRISPR genome editing, and computational approaches, is leading the field of DNA event recording (https://yachie-lab.org/research.html?lang=EN). Furthermore, through collaboration with the Yachie laboratory at the University of British Columbia and other established international collaborations, the successful candidate will have an opportunity to access a world-leading research network.

We are currently looking for researchers to join the following project:

Automating DNA Design & Synthesis Using Conversational AI (CREST BioDX, Project Lead: Hideto Mori): As genome editing and synthetic biology advance, the demand for DNA synthesis is rapidly increasing, creating a growing need to automate the DNA design and synthesis process. In this project, we aim to develop an AI tool powered by a large language model that can automatically design appropriate plasmid vectors and genetic circuit sequences through interactive dialogues with researchers, along with an automated DNA synthesis platform. Specifically, you will be involved in one of the following tasks:

• Developing an AI interface that assists in planning DNA cloning experiments through conversations with users.
• Exploring novel functional proteins, including genome editing proteins, and proposing and constructing synthetic genetic circuits using those proteins.

We are seeking individuals with expertise in either the life sciences or mathematical informatics who are enthusiastic about acquiring knowledge and skills from the alternate field. Additionally, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A Ph.D in a field related to the molecular biology, bioinformatics, informatics, or similar areas. (Candidates expected to obtain their degree by the 2024 academic year may be considered.)
• Proficient in programming skills (Python).
• Expertise and experience in developing software tools (optional but encouraged).
• Expertise and experience in basic molecular cloning experiments (optional but encouraged).
• Proficient communication skill in either the English or Japanese language.

To be determined in consultation.

From the starting date to March 31, 2025
*Following completion of the term, the contract may be extended subject to continuity of work and performance evaluation (the extension limit is March 31, 2029).

Suita Campus (2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita-City, Osaka, Japan)

The salary will be decided based on the applicants’ qualifications and experience.
6,228,900 - 7,713,600 JPY per annum. (Monthly payments of one-twelfth of annual salary)
Commuting allowance is available. Bonuses and allowances for housing, dependency, and retirement are included in the above-mentioned annual salary and will not be paid separately.
Medical insurance and employee’s pension insurance of the Federation of National Public Service Personnel Mutual Aid Associations, Employment Insurance and Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance.

When applying for this position, please email mori.hideto.primeosaka-u.ac.jp (Cc: ikumi-makoffice.osaka-u.ac.jp) with a subject) with the subject line “PRIMe Yachie group recruitment for a specially appointed researcher (full-time)” and include the following application documents.

1. A Curriculum Vitae (CV) including educational background, work experience, academicand social activities, etc., with a photo attached, (format is free) and contact details of at least two potential referees who can provide opinions for the applicant (including their name, affiliation, position, phone number, and email address).
2. A short summary of previous research and current interest (maximum of two A4 pages,)
   After the document review, interviews will be conducted either in person or online, and a final decision on hiring will be made based on the interview results.