Job description

Applications are invited for a 3 year position as Postdoctoral Fellow (SKO 1352) in the Computational Biology and Gene Regulation Group, at the Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway (NCMM), University of Oslo, a Nordic EMBL partner for Molecular Medicine. The research group is lead by Anthony Mathelier.

The group was established in 2016 and focuses on gene expression regulation and the mechanisms by which it can be disrupted in human diseases such as cancers. In a nutshell, the group develops and applies computational approaches to analyze in house (through collaborations with groups at the Institute for Cancer Research, where the group is also affiliated) and public multi-omics data to study gene expression dysregulation. Amongst others, our current projects aim at developing new computational methods and tools for (1) improving the prediction of transcription factor binding sites; (2) prioritizing somatic mutations dysregulating the gene regulatory program in cancer cells; (3) understanding the interplay between TF binding and DNA methylation in cancers, (4) characterizing the landscape of active promoters and enhancers in breast cancer; and (5) assessing the transcriptional impact of transition from diploid to aneuploid cells in breast cancer. See http://mathelierlab.com for further information.

More about the position

We seek a highly motivated individual with a track-record of statistical models and/or computational tools development dedicated to the analysis of high throughput sequencing data, comparative genomics, functional genomics, or a related field. We are looking for applicants excited about combining life sciences and computation to analyze gene expression regulation. The successful candidate will be collaborative, independent, with strong enthusiasm for research, and should have experience in programming (mainly Python, R, and bash) dedicated to the analysis of large-scale genomics data with a strong publication record. Being familiar with gene expression regulation in general, DNA methylation, and TF binding is an advantage.

The candidate will be expected to establish her/his independent research topic within the scope of the group’s research interests.

The appointment is a fulltime position and is made for a period of up to three years

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

Qualification requirements

• Applicants must hold a degree equivalent to a Norwegian doctoral degree in computational biology, bioinformatics, biostatistics, computer science, or a related field. Doctoral dissertation must be submitted for evaluation by the closing date. Appointment is dependent on the public defence of the doctoral thesis being approved.
• Strong publication records (including 1st authorship) with evidence for writing scientific manuscripts independently
• Proficiency in programming (Python, R, bash)
• Ability to collaborate with researchers from different fields and at different career stages
• Willingness to be part of a team to share knowledge and skills
• Documented ability to communicate science
• Knowledge of eukaryotic gene expression regulation
• Knowledge of molecular biology
• Experience with analysis of genomics data sets
• High drive for science and desire to become an independent researcher
• Fluent oral and written communication skills in English

We offer

• salary NOK 515 200 - 597 400 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

How to apply

The application must include

• cover letter (outlining motivation, career goals, past achievements, summarizing scientific work and research interest)
• a short research project proposal if available (max. 2 pages)
• CV (summarizing education, positions, and other qualifying activity)
• copies of educational certificates (academic transcripts only)
• a complete list of publications
• 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.

In assessing the applications, special emphasis will be placed on the documented, academic qualifications, the project proposal, and the quality of the project as well as the candidates motivation and personal suitability. 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 as Postdoctoral Fellow for more than one specified period at the same institution.

According to the Norwegian Freedom and 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

Inquiries about the position can be directed to group leader Anthony Mathelier: anthony.mathelier@ncmm.uio.no

Inquiries about application/how to apply can be directed to HR-adviser Ragni Indahl: ragni.indahl@ncmm.uio.no.

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