The Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) JRG Computational Genome Biology is looking for a
PhD Student Computational Biology / Bioinformatics (m/f/d) (fulltime)
to fill a three year appointment (earliest start Nov 1st, 2021).
The bioinformatics group "Computational Genome Biology" of Dr Martin Kircher performs research in the fields of sequence analysis, data mining, machine learning and functional genomics. We devise computational approaches to score and identify functionally relevant genetic changes in the human genome. Understanding how gene regulation is encoded in our genomes across development and the diversity of cell-types is one of our fundamental research questions. With international collaborators, we use activity measures from reporter assays and regulatory screens in combination with additional functional read outs of promoters and enhancers (like chromatin accessibility and histone marks) to study expression effects. The work will be co-supervised by Dr. Max Schubach.
Your responsibilities:
- Work on cutting-edge projects using state-of-the-art technology:
- Analyze expression effects of high-complexity MPRA experiments across cell-types
- Model regulatory sequence in convolutional neural nets or integrate sequence features, DNA shape, epigenetic marks, and interactions between DNA binding factors in classical machine learning models
- Study the regulatory mechanisms through model interpretation
- Gain insights into the sequence encoding of regulatory function and its relation to epigenetic annotations
Requirements:
- M.Sc. or equivalent in bioinformatics, computational biology or similar, alternatively in computer sciences with experience in molecular biology and large-scale data analysis
- Fulfilling all registration requirements at a University (preferentially in Berlin) for an aspired PhD program
- Knowledge of molecular biology, gene regulation and epigenetics
- Highly skilled in a programming language such as Python, R, C++, or Java
- Deep understanding of statistical concepts and machine learning
- Intermediate to advanced skills in an analysis environment like R or Python scipy/scikit learn
- Highly motivated to expand knowledge and develop new innovative approaches
- Diligent, goal-oriented and independent work attitude
- Team-oriented with interdisciplinary communication skills
- Excellent English language skills
What we offer:
- Training in computational biology and independent research
- Guidance on PhD requirements and thesis work
- Access to BIH facilities and computational resources
- Collaboration with internal and external partners
- Career development
- Remuneration according to E13 TVöD VKA-K. The grouping takes into consideration the qualifications and the personal circumstances of the candidate
- Family- friendly, flexible working hours
We live diversity! BIH strongly encourages qualified women to apply. Severely disabled applicants and those with equal status will be given preferential consideration in cases of equal suitability.
Please submit your application via the BIH Career portal https://jobs.bihealth.org by Sep 15, 2021, quoting the reference number BIH.DM-04.21. We look forward hearing from you!
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Martin Kircher
