Postdoctoral fellow in Cancer Genomics

The Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM) at Uppsala University provides a broad international environment for research and teaching. Research at IMBIM) broadly spans the areas of biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, tumour biology, comparative genetics, functional genomics, immunology, bacteriology, and virology. The research is essentially of fundamental nature, but with relevance and application in health and disease in both animals and humans. More info: Research - Uppsala University (uu.se)

Project description: We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in the research group of Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, at the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology (IMBIM), Uppsala University, Sweden. The research group, together with Karin Forsberg-Nilsson’s group at the Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology (IGP), studies human and canine cancers. We utilize the evolutionary constraint from our 240 mammalian Zoonomia project to identify novel cancer driver genes by looking for the enrichment of non-coding constraint mutations. The successful applicant will identify novel cancer driver genes and further annotate the candidate mutations and genes using bioinformatic analysis. He/she will also perform experimental follow-up including massively parallel reporter assays (MPRAs), CRISPR and response to candidate drugs in the CRISPRed cells. The postdoctoral fellow will have the opportunity to be part of a team with an enthusiasm for science and a longstanding interest in genomics, comparative genetics and cancer. For further information about our work, please visit: Lindblad-Toh, Kerstin - Uppsala University (uu.se)

Duties
We are seeking an independent and self-motivated postdoctoral fellow who will investigate the role of novel cancer driver genes in humans. The successful applicant will be responsible for driving a research project, which includes staying updated with relevant literature, conducting bioinformatics and laboratory experiments using techniques such as MPRA and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and functional experiments with primary cells/cell lines, writing and submitting manuscripts, and identifying and communicating the need for further development and research. Additionally, there may be a minor involvement in departmental tasks, such as teaching.

Qualifications and formal requirements
Ph.D. degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. biomedicine, molecular biology, computational biology, cancer, medicine). The Ph.D. degree must have been obtained at the start of the employment and no more than three years prior to the application deadline, however, periods of e.g. parental or sick leave may be deducted from this three-year period.

The candidate is expected to demonstrate both independent initiative and the ability to collaborate effectively with other group members and external collaborators. Practical and theoretical knowledge in molecular biology, particularly in cancer and bioinformatics, is considered a strength. Hands-on experience with molecular and cell biology methods is valued. The applicant should be capable of working both independently and as part of a team, with problem-solving skills and an openness to learning new methods. Given the rapidly evolving field of non-coding mutations in cancer, the ability to stay updated and evaluate and select appropriate methods is crucial. Proficiency in English, both oral and written, is essential.

Application
Please submit your application including i) a CV, ii) a cover letter describing your research interests, skills and motivation to apply for the position, iii) publications and/or a copy of your PhD thesis, together with iv) contact information of at least two referees (phone number and e-mail address). 

About the employment
The employment is a temporary position of 2 years. Scope of employment 100%. Starting date as agreed. Placement: Uppsala

For further information about the position: please contact professor Kerstin Lindblad-Toh, Kerstin.lindblad-toh@imbim.uu.se

Please submit your written application no later than November 8, 2024, UFV-PA 2024/3441.