Postdoctoral Researcher in Bioinformatics of the Human Gut Microbiome
The research group of Anne Salonen at Human Microbiome Research Program at the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Helsinki, Finland, invites applications for a fixed-term position of
Postdoctoral Researcher in bioinformatics of the human gut microbiome
from 15.1.2025 until 31.8.2028 or according to agreement.
The vacancy is part of European Innovation Council (EIC) funded project Precision nutrition approach for increasing fibre intake and health using gut microbiota-matched sustainable fibre sources (fibrematch.eu), aiming to match dietary fibre types to prevalent functional gut microbiome subtypes to increase fibre consumption without digestive symptoms. Our research group works on the human intestinal and female reproductive track microbiomes with an overall aim to provide understanding on how these microbiomes contribute to health and disease. We work on high-throughput omics data sets and also work with reductionist approaches on targeted microbes using genomic and phenotyping tools.
Responsibilities and qualifications
We are looking for a motivated postdoctoral researcher who is interested in metagenome data analysis and diet-microbiome interactions. The work focuses on identifying functional microbiome types relevant for metabolism of dietary fibre.
The work will involve:
- Assessing statistical approaches for classifying gut microbiomes based on functionality
- Integration of diet, microbiome, gastrointestinal symptom and other host data
- Communicating the results in scientific publications and conference presentations
- Co-supervision of PhD and MSc students on integrative NGS data analysis (desired, not an absolute requirement)
- Additionally, the candidate is expected to coordinate omics data management in the group and contribute to new research ideas and (co)-applying for grants. Depending on interests and expertise, some teaching on microbiome and/or nutrition or bioinformatics will be available.
The candidate we seek:
- Has a PhD degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, microbiology, nutrition or other relevant areas (in exceptional cases if other requirements are fulfilled, a candidate with an MSc degree may be considered)
- Has demonstrated expertise in omics data analyses and statistical modelling, preferably in human cohort and/or intervention datasets
- Has proficiency in R and Unix/Linux and knowledge on perl, python or other programming language
- Experience in cloud or HPC computing
- Has solid track record and strong scientific drive
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a diverse team environment
- Has strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build scientific relationships
- Has good communication skills and proficiency in verbal and written English
- Previous experience on microbiome research, microbial metabolic modelling and/or nutrition is optimal but not required
The chosen applicant is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki.
We provide
- Opportunities for personal development in an enthusiastic, supportive and international team that has strong track record in human microbiome research
- Possibility to produce high quality publications within the FIBRE-MATCH project and optionally also on other research of the group e.g., on the prospective Health and Early Life Microbiota birth cohort data. We encourage candidates to develop their own projects and explore new research directions that can, if desired, support their transition to an independent career.
- National and international networking as part of a multidisciplinary EU-funded project
Terms of employment
The candidate is expected to start as early as possible and the period of employment lasts until 31.8.2028. Trial period of six months will be applied. The monthly gross starting salary will be appr. 3500-4000 € per month depending on the appointee’s qualifications and experience.
In addition, the University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, unemployment and pension fund, a generous holiday package, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers.
How to apply
Applications should be submitted in English through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the "Apply now" button.
Internal applicants (i.e., current employees of the University of Helsinki) submit their applications by using the Employee Login button.
Please send your application (max 1 page) and the following appendices as a single pdf file:
- Motivation letter (max 1 page), summarising your current research experience and achievements (half page) and research vision for postdoctoral period (half page)
- A complete CV, including PhD thesis title, date of defense and link to the online version of the thesis (if exists), previous and current positions, experience in supervision and mentoring, contact information for two references
- A complete list of publications
The closing date for applications is 10.12.2024.
For further information, please contact: anne.salonen(at)helsinki.fi.
The University of Helsinki welcomes applicants of any gender, age, linguistic or cultural background, or minority group.
About the Faculty of Medicine
The Faculty of Medicine promotes high-quality scientific research and provides research-based undergraduate and postgraduate education in medicine, dentistry, psychology, and logopedics, as well as an international Master's Programme in Translational Medicine. In addition to its teaching and research activities, the faculty serves as a significant expert organization in the healthcare sector and contributes to ethical discourse in the field.
Together with HUS Helsinki University Hospital and the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), the Faculty of Medicine constitutes an academic medical centre recognized for excellence in international comparisons.
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