Researcher on the genetics of autoimmune disorders - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Projectdescription: We are looking for a researcher to work on large-scale data handling and data analysis in a ground breaking research project concerning inflammatory autoimmune disorders. This collaborative project between SciLifeLab and several national disease consortia is a research project partly funded by AstraZeneca together with research grants to research groups at several Swedish universities. The successful candidate will be joining professor Kerstin Lindblad-Toh’s research group in Comparative genomics and genetics, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, and work in close collaboration with professor Lars Rönnblom’s research group in Rheumatology, Department of Medical Sciences. As a researcher you will be a key person in a research project with the primary goal of identifying molecular mechanisms leading to increased risk for a number of related inflammatory autoimmune disorders, such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Sjögren’s syndrome and myositis. By using large-scale sequencing, and by utilizing the unique Swedish population structure and clinical patient records, the goal is to develop new diagnostic methods and treatment strategies for these disorders.  

Duties: To perform statistical and bioinformatic analyses of data generated within the research project. The project involves analysis of several types of “omics” data: mainly genetic (DNA sequences and genotypes), but also DNA methylation, RNA- and protein expression. Duties include planning and implementation of statistical and bioinformatic analyses with focus on genetic association analysis, participation in smaller analysis teams, compilation and presentation of data, as well as writing scientific publications. Duties also include maintaining the database holding the genetic and clinical data in the project, as well as ensuring access to project data for collaborators. Travel to our collaborators in and outside of Sweden can occur, as can trips to courses and conferences. The successful candidate will independently assume responsibility for subprojects within the research project. Some teaching can be included in the duties.

Qualification requirements: PhD in molecular epidemiology, medical genetics, bioinformatics, biostatistics or similar. Previous experience of research regarding the genetics of complex diseases. Good computer programming skills (e.g. in Python, Perl or Java) and experience of working in a Linux environment. Experience with for example Bash scripting. Documented experience of large-scale molecular data analysis, preferably sequencing or SNP data. Good knowledge of statistics and usage of software for statistical programming (e.g. R). Good writing and verbal communication skills in English and ability to keep good records of performed work.

Great emphasis will be placed on personal suitability, in particular the ability to collaborate with other researchers, bioinformaticians and clinicians. We are looking for candidates with the ability to work independently and assume responsibility for their duties.

Additional skills: Experience of research regarding autoimmune disorders, genetic association analysis, analysis using high performance computing clusters (e.g. UPPMAX). Understanding and experience of handling data security aspects relating to patient data and genetic information.

Uppsala University finds that gender balance and diversity brings a higher quality to the organization. We therefore welcome applicants of any gender and with different birth background, functionality and life experience.

Pay: Individually negotiated salary. Include your salary claim in the application.

Working hours: Full-time

Starting date: The position is available as soon as possible for a period of one year with possibility to extension.

Type of position: Temporary position

For further information about the position please contact: Professor Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, kersli@broadinstitute.org, Professor Lars Rönnblom, lars.ronnblom@medsci.uu.se, Project coordinator Johanna Sandling, johanna.sandling@medsci.uu.se, Bioinformatician Lina Hultin Rosenberg, lina.hultin-rosenberg@imbim.uu.se

Application procedure: Please include a covering letter in the application describing motives for applying for the position and relevant qualifications. A CV with copies of degree certificates/diplomas, publication list, and additional documents such as contact information of referees should be included. Please also include information on when you would be available to take up the position.

Please submit your application by March 26, 2018, UFV-PA 2018/629.