PhD Stipend in Bioinformatic Analysis of Potato Genetic Diversity (18-21102)

PhD Stipend in Bioinformatic Analysis of Potato Genetic Diversity (18-21102)

At the Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, a PhD Stipend is available within the study programme of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering. The stipend is open for appointment from 1 February 2022 or as soon as possible hereafter. The position is for 3 years. The Department consists of two sections with research and teaching in Biotechnology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Technology and Biology. Place of employment of the position is Section for Bioscience and Engineering in Aalborg. In the workplace, we strive for diversity in nationality, culture, and gender, growth as a team effort, maintaining an inspiring physical work environment, and ensuring a good work-life balance

Job description

Crop development, including potato breeding, is increasingly using predictive algorithms, such as Genomic Prediction to support breeding decisions including early selection of offspring and parent crossings based on genotype data. Because of the changes in climate and the need to sustain biodiversity alongside intensive agricultural systems, improvements in methods to support crop breeding is a prerequisite for accelerating the development of novel more sustainable crops.

Potato is a highly diverse tetraploid crop. Observed genetic variance is orders of magnitude higher than the subset of genetic variance that carries functional importance. We hypothesize that identification of the subset of variation that carries functional importance will cause significant improvements of both predictive algorithms, association genetic analyses (such as GWAS), and increase basic insight into potato plant biology and breeding history.

The aim of this PhD study is to identify the subset of genetic variance that underpins the functional genetic variance and test if this hypothesis is true.

The project will involve generating new, as well as use existing whole genome sequences of potato cultivars to identify genetic diversity and develop bioinformatic workflows to build genome wide haplotype blocks and approximate allele variants. Furthermore, integrative analyses to include protein structure information should be included to identify the polymorphisms most likely to alter protein structure and/or function.

A relevant educational background within biotechnology or molecular biology, and experimental experience in molecular biology and/or genomics is necessary. Furthermore, documented bioinformatics competences and experience is considered an advantage.

For further information about scientific aspects of the stipend, please contact Professor Kåre Lehmann Nielsen by mail: [email protected]

The Department of Chemistry and Bioscience advances regional, national, and global knowledge build-up, while contributing to the solution of societal challenges through innovative research, problem-based education and knowledge-based collaborations. We produce excellent research in engineering and natural science and Aalborg University constantly ranks top of the World within engineering research and education

PhD stipends are allocated to individuals who hold a Master's degree. PhD stipends are normally for a period of 3 years. It is a prerequisite for allocation of the stipend that the candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science in accordance with the regulations of Ministerial Order No. 1039 of August 27, 2013 on the PhD Programme at the Universities and Certain Higher Artistic Educational Institutions. According to the Ministerial Order, the progress of the PhD student shall be assessed at regular points in time.
Shortlisting will be applied. This means that subsequent to the deadline for applications the head of department supported by the chair of the assessment committee will select candidates for assessment. All applicants will be informed whether they will be assessed or not.
For further information about stipends and salary as well as practical issues concerning the application procedure contact Ms. Vigdis Skomager-Bohnfeldt, The Doctoral School of Engineering and Science, email: [email protected] ,  phone: +45 9940 7408.
For more information of The Doctoral School of Engineering and Science: www.phd.engineering.aau.dk  

The application is only to be submitted online by using the "Apply online" button below.
AAU wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background or belief.

Agreement

Appointment and salary as a PhD fellow are according to the Ministry of Finance Circular of 28 June 2019 on the Collective Agreement for Academics in Denmark, Appendix 5, regarding PhD fellows, and with the current Circular of 11 December 2019 on the employment structure at Danish universities.

Vacancy number

18-21102

Deadline

02/01/2022

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