Postdoc position for statistical genetics and gene-environmental interplay

At the section of Rheumatology at Oslo University Hospital, we have a vacant 3-year postdoctoral/researcher position in the project PREVENT-JIA, which is funded by the South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority. The project is an important part of the research group of Professor Helga Sanner (Epidemiology and outcomes in rheumatic disease) https://www.ous-research.no/sanner in close collaboration with national and international experts in relevant fields.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a chronic and debilitating immune-mediated disease affecting children. Despite the significant burden JIA places on patients, their families, and society, its causal factors and underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown, though it is believed to result from a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. PREVENT-JIA is part of a larger initiative where several researchers with different professional backgrounds are working on factors and mechanisms that can influence the development and severity of JIA and other rheumatic diseases. This includes both genetic risk, environmental factors during pregnancy and early childhood, as well as gene-environment interplay. We use genetic and environmental data from the internationally unique Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), phenotype and genetic data from Norwegian JIA registries as well as genetic summary statistics from different international cohorts.

Oslo University Hospital is a workplace with great diversity. We believe this is essential to perform the tasks required of us. Therefore, we pursue diversity among our job applicants and encourage everyone to apply regardless of who you are and what background you have.

Job description

• To characterize the genotype-phenotype mapping in JIA, using datasets from whole genome studies.
• Develop and apply multivariate models to identify and quantify the genetic variations contributing to development of immune mediated diseases, with a focus on JIA. 
• The research will involve statistical genetics, bioinformatics, machine learning and Bayesian data analysis, molecular genetics, and novel biostatistical methods.
• Work in a multidisciplinary team that include clinicians in rheumatology and paediatrics, epidemiology, genetics, bioinformatics, applied mathematics, big data and computer science.
• The postdoc will, in addition to being a part of the Sanner group, be an integrated part of the Center for Precision Psychiatry, Oslo University Hospital, and Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, led by Prof. Ole A Andreassen https://www.med.uio.no/norment/english/ who are leading experts in statistical genetics and big data analytics, including machine learning approaches.
• Close collaboration with centre director Siri Håberg with team at the Centre for Fertility and Health, a Centre of excellence (CoE) at the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH); prof. Ketil Størdal at the Paediatric Research Institute OUS/UiO; National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIH/NIEHS), USA as well as other international research groups.
• The position may involve a period working abroad with our collaborators 

Qualification requirements

• Background in statistical genetics, medicine, molecular genetics, molecular biology, applied mathematics, computer science or equivalent
• Competence in statistical genetics, applied mathematics and/or machine learning is preferable
• Strong programming skills and hands-on experience with high performance computing and big data analysis is an advantage
• Genuine interest in developing and applying new analytical methodology 
• Background in DNA/RNA sequencing and microarray data analyses, bioinformatics and/or genetic engineering is an advantage
• Clinical background will be an advantage
• Must have good written and spoken English skills
• Completed PhD degree. Depending on background and experience, it may be relevant to hire as a researcher. Applicants who complete their PhD around the tentative start date (February 25) are welcome to apply

Personal competence

• Ambitious and highly motivated 
• Independent and self-driven
• Good collaboration and communication skills with the ability to work as part of a team
• Structured, accurate and efficient

We offer

• An exciting research environment with a multidisciplinary profile and large opportunities for academic development.
• Opportunity to work with experts in the field
• Salary depending on qualifications
• Favourable pension plan
• Attractive welfare arrangements

How to apply
The application must include:

• Application and motivation letter 
• Academic CV and a complete list of publications and academic work
• Educational certificates and transcripts of records
• Contact details of 2-3 references (only contacted after notifying the candidate) 

The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system Webcruiter. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English (or a Scandinavian language). Interviews with the best qualified candidates will be arranged. 

Kontaktinformasjon

Helga Sanner, Project leader and professor, +4741256664, [email protected]

Arbeidssted

Sognsvannsveien 20
0372 Oslo

Nøkkelinformasjon:

Arbeidsgiver: Oslo universitetssykehus HF

Referansenr.: 4875869207
Stillingsprosent: 100%
Contract
Startdato: 01.01.2025
Sluttdato: 31.12.2027
Søknadsfrist: 20.11.2024