Postdoc in Data Science focusing on statistical and machine learning methods for genomic research in admixed populations

The Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics (QGG), Aarhus University, seeks a data science postdoc to develop novel methods and related software tools for the analysis of data from poulations with multiple ancestral genetic origins (genetically admixed populations). The position begins on 1 September 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter. The position is for two years with a possible extension of another year depending on satisfactory performance.
 

Purpose and description of the position

Genetic admixture is a result of the exchange of genetic materials between two or more historically differentiated populations. In livestock, admixture is artificially created to improve, for example, productivity traits. In humans, admixture arise due to large-scale migration events. Admixture provides a unique genetic background for each gene as ancestry patterns may vary between individuals within the same admixed population and along the genome of an admixed individual. So far, the impact of genetic background has been overlooked in genomic research, which largely focused on single populations containing individuals with similar genetic backgrounds. Admixed individuals are either ignored or not handled properly, limiting our understanding of genetic variation among individuals for complex trait phenotypes.

The main purpose of this project is to understand how diverse ancestral origins of admixed populations translate into differences in their genetic background and thereby differences in phenotypic expression of complex traits. The project will lay on series of simulations and real data from humans and dairy cattle.


Tasks and responsibilities 

• Develop statistical and machine learning methods to exploit ancestry patterns over the genome of individuals.
• Develop methods for simulation and analysis of complex (genes’ regulatory) network structures.
• Develop softwares for data analysis and simulations.
• Dissemination of results by participating in international conferences and scientific publications.
• Be involved in organizing short courses.

Who are we and what can we offer?

QGG is an international research center with more than 70 employees and visitors from more than 20 nations worldwide. We offer a dynamic research environment where we value ownership, responsibility and a respectful work place culture. We conduct basic and applied research within quantitative genetics and genomics and our research is characterized by a very close collaboration with industry partners. Hence, you will be part of a research environment where results are put practice and are used by industry and in public sector consultancy to facilitate the green transition. QGG is part of Aarhus University (AU), a world class university. The city of Aarhus is an exciting place to live with a strong student community and a high standard of living.


Qualifications requirements

Applicants should hold a PhD degree in data science, statistics, applied mathematics, or another related field with a strong statistical and scientific programming background.

The ideal candidate has a good theoretical background in machine learning and statistics with strong experience in developing computational tools (e.g., packages or similar in Julia, Python or R), supported by related scientific publication records. Experience in the project’s research area is an advantage, but a keen interest in statistical and quantitative genetics will be valued. The role requires effective communication skills in written and spoken English for the presentation of our research to various audiences – from experts to the general public. The ideal candidate has good interpersonal skills, is ambitious and scientifically self-motivated, creative, and is able to work in a large and diverse group of researchers.
 

Place of work

The place of work is C. F. Møllers Allé 3, 8000, Aarhus C, in the centre of the Aarhus University main campus, and neighboring related departments.
 

Contact information

Further information about the position may be obtained from assistant professor, Emre Karaman, e-mail: [email protected]



Application procedure

Shortlisting is used. This means that after the deadline for applications – and with the assistance from the assessment committee chairman, and the appointment committee if necessary, – the head of department selects the candidates to be evaluated. All applicants will be notified whether or not their applications have been sent to an expert assessment committee for evaluation. The selected applicants will be informed about the composition of the committee, and each applicant is given the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that concerns him/her self. Once the recruitment process is completed a final letter of rejection is sent to the deselected applicants.


Letter of reference

If you want a referee to upload a letter of reference on your behalf, please state the referee’s contact information when you submit your application. We strongly recommend that you make an agreement with the person in question before you enter the referee’s contact information, and that you ensure that the referee has enough time to write the letter of reference before the application deadline.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to ensure that letters of reference received after the application deadline will be taken into consideration.


Formalities and salary range

Technical Sciences refers to the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Danish Universities under the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

The application must be in English and include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans and information about research activities, teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any). Guidelines for applicants can be found here.

Appointment shall be in accordance with the collective labour agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Further information on qualification requirements and job content may be found in the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Danish Universities.

Salary depends on seniority as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Associations.

Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants.

Research activities will be evaluated in relation to actual research time. Thus, we encourage applicants to specify periods of leave without research activities, in order to be able to subtract these periods from the span of the scientific career during the evaluation of scientific productivity.

Aarhus University offers a broad variety of services for international researchers and accompanying families, including relocation service and career counselling to expat partners. Read more here. Please find more information about entering and working in Denmark here.

Aarhus University also offers a Junior Researcher Development Programme targeted at career development for postdocs at AU. You can read more about it here.

The application must be submitted via Aarhus University’s recruitment system, which can be accessed under the job advertisement on Aarhus University's website.
 


Aarhus University

Aarhus University is an academically diverse and research-intensive university with a strong commitment to high-quality research and education and the development of society nationally and globally. The university offers an inspiring research and teaching environment to its 38,000 students (FTEs) and 8,300 employees, and has an annual revenues of EUR 935 million. Learn more at www.international.au.dk/