DTU Health Tech is looking for a qualified candidate for a vacant PhD position in bioinformatics. In this position, you will develop algorithms and computational methods to deal with the analysis of large datasets from modern and ancient sources. More specifically, these algorithms will be aimed at analyzing relationships between ancient and modern populations. The bioinformatics section of DTU Health Tech performs research in the areas of different metagenomics, cancer genomics and population genomics.
Responsibilities and qualifications
Current bioinformatics algorithms and software are often ill-equipped to deal with DNA extracted from ancient sources. This ancient DNA shows high levels of fragmentation and accumulated chemical damage. Furthermore, ancient sediments often contain DNA from multiple species and often multiple individuals. 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 numerical algorithms and data structures. You will work in collaboration with other partners including the University of Copenhagen and McMaster University in order to develop the next generation of algorithms and software applied to DNA extract from fossils, ancient soils and sediments.
You must 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 in addition to a bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS points).
Ideally, your degree should be in computer science, mathematics or biological science with a focus on quantitative and mathematical aspects.
More specifically you should ideally have the following qualifications:
Knowledge of a programming language like Python, Perl, C++ and/or Java (C/C++ is preferred)
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 metagenomics 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.
Potential start date is around January 1st 2022 (or according to mutual agreement).
You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
If you want to know more, please contact the potential main supervisor directly – Prof. Gabriel Renaud at: gabre [at] dtu.dk
You can read more about bioinformatics research at DTU Health Tech at https://www.healthtech.dtu.dk/english/Research/Research-Sections/Section-Bioinformatics
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.
Application
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 12 December 2021 (Danish time).
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 – in the right hand column)
Link to a code portfolio stored in repositories like GitHub/bitbucket is not required but helpful
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
DTU Health Tech creates health technology to improve health and well-being for humans in collaboration with companies, hospitals as well as national and international researchers. The cross-disciplinarity at the department, which includes mathematics, computer science, physics, chemistry and biology, provides the foundation for new and innovative technology for the future.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, 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 12,900 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.