Background

A 2-year postdoctoral position with flexible starting date is available in the Computational Biology and Systems Medicine group led by Marieke Kuijjer at the Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway (NCMM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Nordic EMBL partner (see here for more information).

The group was established in 2018 and focuses on using computational approaches to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive cancer development, progression, and heterogeneity. The group's driving hypothesis is that the complex clinical phenotypes we observe in cancer cannot be adequately defined by individual layers of molecular data. Instead, we must consider the underlying network of interactions between the different biological components that can drive cancer phenotypes. To do so, the group develops computational approaches that place genomic data into the context of large-scale, genome-wide regulatory networks, as well as approaches to analyze such networks for individual cancer patients.

Amongst others, our current projects aim at developing new computational methods and tools for (1) modeling enhancer-promoter interactions, (2) integration of multi-modal single cell data using deep learning, (3) fine-tuned analysis of genome-wide regulatory networks, (4) integration of patient-specific regulatory networks with multi-omic data, (5) modeling networks based on single cell and spatial transcriptomic data. See also here for more information

The candidate

We seek a highly motivated candidate with a track record of statistical models, network science, and/or computational tool development dedicated to the analysis of of high-throughput genomics data, comparative genomics, functional genomics, or a related field. The candidate should be excited about applying computational tools to answer questions in biology. The ideal candidate is collaborative and creative, has strong programming skills dedicated to the analysis of large-scale genomics data, and has a strong publication record. Experience with analysis of large-scale genomic data sets is a requirement for this position. Experience with data integration, machine learning, network science, cancer biology, and/or gene regulation is considered an advantage. The position is open to applicants with a PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, biostatistics, cancer genomics, network science, or related fields.

The candidate will be expected to establish her/his independent research topic within the scope of the group's research interests. Therefore, it is encouraged to submit a short research project proposal with the application (please see below for more information). The main purpose of the fellowship is to qualify researchers for work in higher academic positions within their disciplines.

The appointment is a fulltime position and is made for a period of two years with possible extension depending on future funding.

Qualification requirements

• PhD degree in computational biology, bioinformatics, biostatistics, cancer genomics, network science, or a related field
• Strong publication record (including 1st authorship) with evidence of writing scientific manuscripts independently
• Proficiency in programming (such as R, Python, MATLAB, Bash)
• Experience with analysis of high-throughput genomics data
• Knowledge in gene regulation, cancer, and/or network biology is considered an advantage
• Experience with high performance computing is desirable
• Professional proficiency in English
• Willingness to work in a team environment, sharing skills and ideas, and collaborating on projects
• High drive for science and desire to become an independent researcher
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English

We offer

• We offer a salary of NOK 544 400 – 626 300 per year depending on the candidate's qualifications
• A professional, stimulating working environment
• Attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement, in addition to Oslo’s family-friendly environment with its rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities

How to apply

The application, including attachments, must be delivered through the electronic recruiting system.

The application must include

• (1) A cover letter, stating your motivation, scientific background, and research interests
• (2) A short research project proposal, if available (max. 2 pages)
• (3) A detailed CV with a list of publications
• (4) 2-3 references (name, institution, e-mail, telephone number, and relation to the candidate)

The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English (or a Scandinavian language).

These should be uploaded in .pdf format. Please submit your application through the web-based recruitment system linked in the announcement. While the recruitment system includes a basic CV, we ask candidates to also include a separate, detailed CV in .pdf format with their application. Applications without a cover letter and/or detailed CV will be rejected.

Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged.

It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to complete the project in the course of the period of employment.

Formal regulations

Please see the guidelines and regulations for appointments to Postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Oslo.

No one can be appointed for more than one Postdoctoral Fellow period at the University of Oslo.

According to the Norwegian Freedom of Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

Inclusion and diversity are a strength. The University of Oslo has a personnel policy objective of achieving a balanced gender composition. Furthermore, we want employees with diverse professional expertise, life experience and perspectives.

If there are qualified applicants with disabilities, employment gaps or immigrant background, we will invite at least one applicant from each of these categories to an interview.

Contact information

Inquiries about the position can be directed to group leader Marieke Kuijjer, marieke.kuijjer@ncmm.uio.no.

For questions relating to the administrative aspects of the application can be directed to HR adviser Nina Modahl, ninam@ncmm.uio.no.

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