Postdoctoral researcher in evolutionary genetics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

A position as a postdoctoral researcher in evolutionary genetics is available at the Department of Ecology and Genetics, Uppsala University.

The Department of Ecology and Genetics is an international environment with staff and students from all over the world. Our research spans from evolutionary ecology and genetics to studies of ecosystems. For more information, see www.ieg.uu.se.

The Evolutionary Biology Centre is one of the leading arenas in the world for research and education in evolutionary biology. The access to the facilities offered by the Science for Life Laboratory (https://www.scilifelab.se/) gives advanced technical support in DNA and RNA sequencing, proteomics, bioinformatics and other computational matters.

Project description: Nematodes are one of the most species-rich groups of animals. Of particular relevance are filarial nematodes (Onchocercidae) as they include causative agents of widespread tropical human diseases such as onchocercosis, lymphatic filariasis, and loiasis. However, analyses of filarial nematode genomes are highly primate-biased and their ancestral host ranges remain largely elusive. We will sequence the genomes of bird-infecting or reindeer-infecting nematode species which span the biodiversity of Onchocercidae and outgroups. Using a state-of-the-art combination of short-read and linked-read sequencing, we will generate high-quality genome assemblies de novo and thus suitable for comparative genomics. Analyses will involve reconstructing the evolution of parasitism of filarial nematodes via genome-scale phylogenomics, as well as detection of host–parasite horizontal transfers of transposons, viruses, and other signatures of parasitism. This project will broaden our knowledge on nematode genomes and permit reassessment of the evolution of parasitism in this widespread group of endoparasites.

Duties: Analysis of next-generation sequencing data; genome-scale phylogenomics of filarial nematodes; comparative genomics of host–parasite horizontal gene transfers.

Qualifications required: For this position the candidate must hold a PhD degree within evolutionary biology, genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, or another relevant field. Basic experience in analyses of next-generation sequencing data is necessary, as is a strong background in phylogenomics and/or comparative genomics. Candidates must be good at communicating in spoken as well as written English.

To be eligible the candidate must have a PhD degree, or a foreign degree equivalent to this, completed less than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, the degree can/could be completed earlier. Special reasons can for example include leave due to illness, parental leave, work within a union.

Qualifications desired: We are looking for a highly motivated and competitive early career scientist with strong scientific skills within the subject area. Emphasis will also be placed on personal skills such as communication and collaboration skills, ability to work independently, scientific maturity and creativity. Programming skills are desirable.

Instructions for the application: The application should include 1) A letter of intent describing yourself, your research background and interests, and why you would be suitable for the position (max. 2 pages). 2) Your CV and publication list. 3) The names and contact information to at least two reference persons (e-mail address and phone no.). 4) A copy of your PhD certificate, 5) Any unpublished work that you would like to present in support of your application. The application should be written in English.

Uppsala University aims for gender balance and diversity in all activities in order to achieve a higher quality at all levels of the organization. We therefore welcome applicants of any gender and with different birth background, functionality and life experience.

Access:  June 1, 2018 or as agreed.

Position: This is a fulltime temporary position for 24 months. Individual salaries applied.

For further information about the position please contact 
Assistant professor Alexander Suh, alexander.suh@ebc.uu.se

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 15 april 2018 UFV-PA 2018/925.

Are you considering moving to Sweden to work at Uppsala University? If so, you will find a lot of information about working and living in Sweden at www.uu.se/joinus. You are also welcome to contact International Faculty and Staff Services at ifss@uadm.uu.se.