Systems Biologist (m/f/d)

JOIN THE TEAM

BASF is a multinational company dedicated to revolutionizing agricultural science. We are committed to developing innovative solutions that address global challenges in food security and sustainability. Our diverse team combines expertise in computational protein engineering, artificial intelligence, and plant molecular biology to create cutting-edge technologies that redefine the agricultural industry.

We are seeking a dynamic and highly skilled Systems Biologist to join our innovative team. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of machine learning models in the field of biological data analysis, a deep interest in plant molecular biology, and solid communication skills. As a crucial member of our research and development team, you will identify opportunities to leverage advanced AI models for mode-of-action analysis and for lead identification and optimization, and you will apply them to enhance crop traits for increased resilience and yield.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• As an AI scientist specializing in biological data analysis, your primary responsibility will be to develop and apply methods for modeling biological systems. The models will focus on understanding the intricate biological networks that connect molecular biology data with physiological traits. For instance, you will explore phenomena like weed resistance to herbicides, assess mechanisms that underpin eco-toxicity, or uncover gene regulatory networks. These models will help identify actionable targets, such as those relevant to trait development in plants or to discovering new modes of action for crop protectants. By integrating biological data using computational techniques, you will enable in-depth analysis of causes and effects within the fields of crop protection and crop science applications.
• Enable scientists to use the Computational tools you developed via apps or interfaces. Integrate these into the available internal infrastructure.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including wet-lab and field experts, to integrate advanced methodologies into broader crop improvement programs. Identify creative opportunities for developing desired agronomic traits, by leveraging on your expertise in molecular biology and machine learning methods.
• Contribute to the development and execution of research plans, experimental designs, and data analysis pipelines.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in systems biology, AI methodologies, graph methodologies, and plant molecular biology, and apply this knowledge to drive innovation within the company.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. or equivalent in Systems Biology, Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in modeling biological data, networks, signaling networks, gene network reconstruction, ontologies, and biological sequence data.
• Proficient in AI and data science methods like Python, R, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and an aptitude for graph modeling, user interface building, pipeline development, containerization, and deployment on different environments. Excellence in statistical methods and deep learning algorithms implementation for Biology applications 
• An entrepreneurial attitude, with the ability to identify innovation opportunities that leverage on knowledge in molecular biology and machine learning methods. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with experience in conveying complex scientific concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary research environment.

BENEFITS

• Responsibility from day one in a challenging but dynamic work environment and "on-the-job" training as part of a committed team.  

• Competitive compensation including attracting benefits as well as excellent career opportunities in an international company.

ABOUT US

For more information, please contact talent-acquisition-belgium@basf.com

At BASF, the chemistry is right.

Because we are counting on innovative solutions, on sustainable actions, and on connected thinking. And on you. Become a part of our formula for success and develop the future with us - in a global team that embraces diversity and equal opportunities irrespective of gender, age, origin, sexual orientation, disability or belief.