DTU Health Tech seeks qualified candidates for a PhD position in bioinformatics with apotential start date around June 2021.
More specifically, the candidate will develop algorithms and computational methods to deal with the analysis of large datasets from modern and ancient sources. The bioinformatics section of DTU Health Tech performs research in the areas of different metagenomics, machine learning, cancer genomics and population genomics. Additional information should be obtained by contacting the potential main supervisor directly.
Current bioinformatics algorithms and software are often ill-equipped to deal with DNA extracted from fossils. This ancient DNA shows high levels of fragmentation and accumulated chemical damage. Furthermore, recently developed computational methodologies applied to ancient DNA do not scale to hundreds of samples. Fortunately, several problems pertaining to ancient DNA can be described in a maximum-likelihood framework and computer science techniques can help us to solve such numerical problems efficiently via machine learning, numerical algorithms and data structures. The overall aim of this project is to develop the next generation of algorithms and software applied to DNA extract from fossils and forensic samples
Qualifications
In terms of education, candidates should have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree, ideally in computer science, mathematics or biological science with a focus on quantitative and mathematical aspects.
More specifically the candidate should ideally have the following qualifications:
- Proficiency in C/C++ or Java or similar (C/C++ is preferred)
- Knowledge of a scripting language like Python or Perl or similar
- Ability to work in a UNIX environment, ideally in a high-performance computing environment
- Thorough understanding of basic algorithms and data structures used in computer science
- Knowledge of probabilities and statistics
- Firm grasp of first-year university mathematics (differential calculus/linear algebra)
- Experience in bioinformatics and knowledge of genomics are a plus
- Expertise in next-generation sequencing data generation and processing are also a plus
The language of communication at DTU is English.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Prof. Gabriel Renaud at: gabre [at] dtu.dk
You can read more about bioinformatics research at DTU Health Tech at Section for Bioinformatics.
Application
Please submit your online application no later than 1 January 2021 (local time).
Apply online at www.career.dtu.dk.
Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma
- Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and Excel spreadsheet here)
Incomplete applications will not be considered. Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications and enclosures received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
DTU Health Tech engages in research, education, and innovation base on technical and natural science for the healthcare sector. The Healthcare sector is a globally expanding market with demands for the most advanced technological solutions. DTU Health Tech creates the foundation for companies to develop new and innovative services and products which benefit people and create value for society. DTU Health Techs expertise spans from imaging and biosensor techniques, across digital health and biological modelling, to biopharma technologies. The department has a scientific staff of about 175 persons, 130 PhD students and a technical/administrative support staff of about 80 persons.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programs, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear vision to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That vision lives on today. DTU has 12,000 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. Our main campus is in Kgs. Lyngby north of Copenhagen and we have campuses in Roskilde and Ballerup.
