Postdoc position in computational population genetics

DTU Health Tech seeks qualified candidates for a vacant postdoc position in computational population genetics with a potential start date around September 1st 2021 (or according to mutual agreement).

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. The bioinformatics section of DTU Health Tech performs research in the areas of different metagenomics, machine learning, cancer genomics and population genomics. 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 bioinformatics algorithms and software 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 sequences 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 are 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 September 1st 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 about bioinformatics research at DTU Health Tech at www.healthtech.dtu.dk/english/Research/Research-Sections/Section-Bioinformatics

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark .

Application 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 20 August 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

Incomplete applications and applications and enclosures received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

DTU Health Tech
DTU Health Tech creates health technology to improve health and well-being for humans in collaboration with companies, hospitals as well as national and international researchers. The cross-disciplinarity at the department, which includes mathematics, computer science, physics, chemistry and biology, provides the foundation for new and innovative technology for the future.

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 12,000 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. Our main campus is in Kgs. Lyngby north of Copenhagen and we have campuses in Roskilde and Ballerup and in Sisimiut in Greenland.