Postdoc in bioinformatics / genetic epidemiology | Radboud University Medical Centre

We are looking for a highly-motivated postdoctoral researcher with an excellent track-record in large-scale genomics techniques (genome-wide association studies, next-generation sequencing), bioinformatics, genetic epidemiology and/or statistics.

The research project focuses on age-related macular degeneration, the most common cause of irreversible blindness in the Western world. AMD has a strong genetic component, and it has been estimated that 50% of the heritability of AMD is explained by common variants in the complement system. The goal of this project is to identify the remaining genetic causes of AMD, and to better understand the disease mechanisms. In the project we will study the role of rare, highly penetrant variants in AMD using whole exome sequencing in a large cohort of patients. The detection of such variants in the pathogenesis of AMD will allow a more accurate genetic risk assessment, enabling preventive measures in individuals at high risk.

Tasks and responsibilities

- The postdoc contributes to the development of new knowledge within the context of the department’s research program

- Designs and performs scientific research in the area of rare, highly penetrant variants in AMD

- Generates and analyses large-scale whole exome sequencing data in order to contribute to scientific publications and presents findings at scientific meetings

- Works in a team with clinical and non-clinical PhD students and scientists

- Discusses, plans and performs research in a stimulating environment

- Works in a highly international research group with fellows from many countries

Profile

- A PhD degree in bioinformatics, genetic epidemiology, or molecular biology

- Highly motivated to work in an interdisciplinary environment at the cutting edge of science

- Strong background in large-scale genomics techniques (genome-wide association studies, next-generation sequencing)

- Experience in bioinformatics, genetic epidemiology and/or statistics

- Affinity with fundamental research related to human disease

- Good communicational skills

Organization

Our research is based at the Department of Ophthalmology, and uses the infrastructure available at the Department of Human Genetics of the Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center. We provide a stimulating work environment within a group of enthusiastic clinical and non-clinical researchers with a strong national and international research network. The Department of Human Genetics in one of the largest and most productive genetics units in Europe. We are proud of our close interaction between laboratory and clinic and were among the first to introduce next-generation sequencing into clinical genetic testing for highly heterogeneous monogenic disorders. Recently, scientists at the Ophthalmology and Human Genetics departments have been awarded prestigious European ERC and Dutch-national Vici grants for research extending next-generation sequencing methodology to highly complex, multifactorial disorders. We are currently building a research unit for this work, especially linked to studies on AMD, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oncological disorders. This unit will be closely linked to the existing monogenic disease sequencing unit.

Comments and contact information

Applicants should include a letter of intent outlining special interest in the position, overall related qualifications, experience and career goals, a curriculum vitae and names and addresses of professional references.

Information about the vacancy can be obtained from Dr. A. den Hollander, telephone number +31 (0) 24 3614 448, Αυτή η διεύθυνση Email προστατεύεται από τους αυτοματισμούς αποστολέων ανεπιθύμητων μηνυμάτων. Χρειάζεται να ενεργοποιήσετε τη JavaScript για να μπορέσετε να τη δείτε. (use this e-mail address only for information, for application use the Apply button).