DTU Health Tech seeks qualified candidates for a postdoc position in computational population genetics with a potential start date around December 1, 2021 (or according to mutual agreement).
Responsibilities
In this position, you will develop algorithms and computational methods to deal with the analysis of large datasets from modern and ancient sources. More specifically, these algorithms will be aimed at analyzing a large number of ancient genomes using population genetics methods. Additional information should be obtained by contacting the potential main supervisor directly. The university is located in the greater Copenhagen area, which is acknowledged for its excellent standards of living, childcare and welfare system.
Current computational methods are often ill-equipped to deal with DNA extracted from ancient populations. This ancient DNA shows high levels of fragmentation and accumulated chemical damage. Furthermore, the number of individuals that can be sequenced is often limited. Fortunately, several problems pertaining to ancient DNA and ancient paleogenetics can be described in a maximum-likelihood framework and computer science techniques can help us to solve such numerical problems efficiently via machine learning, numerical algorithms and data structures. You will work in collaboration with other partners including the University of Copenhagen in order to develop the next generation of algorithms and software applied to DNA from fossils which can then be used to reconstruct population history and infer selection.
Given the COVID19 pandemic, we will happily accommodate requests for remote work until in-person work is deemed safe.
Qualifications
You must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent) ideally in biological science with a focus on quantitative and mathematical aspects, or in computer science or mathematics.
The candidate we are looking for should ideally have the following qualifications:
- Knowledge of a programming language like Python, Perl, C++ and/or Java
- Ability to work in a UNIX environment, ideally in a high-performance computing environment
- Ideally, proficiency in C/C++ or Java or similar is a plus (not required)
- Thorough understanding of basic principles of population genetics
- Knowledge of probabilities and statistics
- Firm grasp of first-year university mathematics (differential calculus/linear algebra)
- Knowledge of coalescence theory or diffusion theory is an advantage
- Expertise in next-generation sequencing data generation and processing is also a plus
The language of communication at DTU is English.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.
The period of employment is 3 years. Potential start date is around December 1, 2021 (or according to mutual agreement).
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Prof. Gabriel Renaud at: gabre [at] dtu.dk.
You can read more aboutDTU Health Tech at www.healthtech.dtu.dk/english.
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 1 December 2021 (Danish time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link “Apply online”, fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD)
- List of publications
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
DTU Health Tech engages in research, education, and innovation base on technical and natural science for the healthcare sector. The Healthcare sector is a globally expanding market with demands for the most advanced technological solutions. DTU Health Tech creates the foundation for companies to develop new and innovative services and products which benefit people and create value for society. DTU Health Techs expertise spans from imaging and biosensor techniques, across digital health and biological modelling, to biopharma technologies. The department has a scientific staff of about 210 persons, 130 PhD students and a technical/administrative support staff of about 160 persons, of which a large majority contributes to our research infrastructure and related commercial activities.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 12,900 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.
Apply for this job
Apply no later than 1 December 2021
Apply for the job at DTU Health Tech by completing the following form.