Job description

Two postdoctoral research fellow positions, each for a period of three years, are available at the Oslo Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology (OCBE), Department of Biostatistics, University of Oslo.

The postdoctoral positions are funded by the Norwegian Cancer Society through the project “Stable variable selection in ultra-high dimensional statistics” (Principal investigator Professor Magne Thoresen), and the general purpose of the project is to work on methodology for variable selection in high-dimensional problems. The project is a collaboration between the University of Oslo and the University of Tromsø.

The postdoctoral research fellows will be employed in 100% 3-year positions at OCBE. Currently, OCBE includes 11 tenured professors and associate professors, 15 researchers, and a number of post-doctoral fellows and PhD students, making up a group of about 70 people. OCBE is internationally recognized, with interests spanning a broad range of areas (including time-to-event models, data integration, causal inference, statistical genomics, high dimensional data and models, Bayesian inference, stochastic simulation algorithms, probabilistic graphical models, machine learning, evolution and population genetics, measurement error models, epidemiological studies of lifestyle and chronic diseases, stochastic models for infectious diseases) and numerous collaborations with leading bio-medical research groups internationally and in Norway. OCBE is an active partner of Big Insight: Statistics for the Knowledge Economy, which is one of the Norwegian centers of excellence for research-based innovation.

The main purpose of the fellowship is to qualify researchers for work in higher academic positions within their disciplines.

More about the positions

The post holders will carry out research in statistical methodology related to variable selection in high-dimensional genomic data. The goal is to develop stable variable selection procedures that allow control of false discoveries. You will specifically work on methods for i) high-dimensional penalized mixed models and ii) graphical models, with applications in cancer research.

We are looking for highly motivated candidates with an outstanding potential and a strong mathematical / statistical background. You will have a PhD in statistics/mathematics or related field, and you will have conducted methodological research in statistics. Proven experience in programming is required. The ideal candidates are able to work effectively as part of a team, but also to develop and pursue independent ideas. The successful candidates are expected to conduct innovative research at the highest international level.

Qualification requirements

The following qualifications will count in the assessment of the applicants:

• Applicants must hold a PhD degree in statistics, biostatistics, mathematics, or other disciplines with documented experience in statistics.
• Experience with genomic data is an advantage, but not necessary.
• Knowledge about penalized regression methods / graphical models is an advantage, but not necessary.
• Documented programming skills in R, python, MatLab, C, C++ or equivalent are necessary.
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English.

The doctoral dissertation must have been submitted for evaluation by the closing date. Appointment is dependent on the public defence of the doctoral thesis being approved.

We offer

• salary NOK 526 000– 586 500 per annum depending on qualifications in position as Postdoctoral Research Fellow (position code 1352)
• a professionally 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
• A structured career development program, specifically developed for postdoctoral candidates

How to apply

The application must include

• Cover letter statement of motivation and research interests (including a summary of the applicant's scientific work and interests and describing how she/he fits the description of the person we seek)
• CV (summarizing education, positions and academic work)
• Copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only)
• A complete list of publications and academic works
• List of reference persons: 2-3 references (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and phone number)

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).

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the documented, academic qualifications as well as the candidates motivation and personal suitability. Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged.

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.

The University of Oslo has an agreement for all employees, aiming to secure rights to research results etc.

The University of Oslo aims to achieve a balanced gender composition in the workforce and to recruit people with ethnic minority backgrounds.

Contact information

• Professor Magne Thoresen, e-mail: magne.thoresen@medisin.uio.no
• HR officer in charge of the position: Ole Rustad

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