Postdoctor in Bacterial Genomics
Reference number PAR 2024/813
The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract researchers and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.
The Department of Microbiology and Immunology, where this postdoctoral position is based, conducts education and research in infection and immunity. Our work spans bacterial and viral pathogens, large-scale microbial genomics, mucosal immunity, immunoregulation in chronic inflammation and tumors, and vaccine development.
Description of the DDLS program: This project is funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation. As a postdoc, you will be part of the Data-Driven Life Science (DDLS) consortium. DDLS uses data, computational methods, and artificial intelligence to study biological systems and processes at all levels. The program aims to recruit and train the next generation of researchers in data-driven life science and create globally leading competence in computational and data science for life science in Sweden. The program has SEK 3.1 billion in funding over 12 years.
Subject area
Postdoctor in Bacterial genomics.
Subject area description
Astrid von Mentzer focuses on the evolution of pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli), particularly enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), a leading cause of diarrheal disease. We use computational genomics and experimental methods to understand how these bacteria evolve, spread, and develop resistance. Our research integrates large-scale genomic data with experimental validation to uncover high-risk genetic elements driving virulence and antibiotic resistance. We also apply a ‘One Health’ approach to study E. coli transmission across humans, animals, and the environment.
Duties
We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with expertise in microbial genomics, machine learning, and data science. You will contribute to projects focused on mapping and characterizing the mobilome of pathogenic E. coli and developing predictive models for their transmission dynamics. Key responsibilities include:
- Analyzing large-scale genomic datasets to understand genetic elements driving antibiotic resistance and virulence
- Developing and refining machine learning models to predict E. coli strain transmission and emergence
- Creating high-throughput bioinformatic pipelines
- Collaborating with international research partners
This position offers a unique opportunity to work on projects with significant implications for global health, with possibilities for research exchanges with partner institutions.
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for employing teaching staff are set out in Chapter 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance and in the Appointment Procedure for Teaching Posts at the University of Gothenburg
To be eligible for appointment as a postdoc, the applicant is required to have a doctoral degree, a doctoral degree in art or a foreign degree that is deemed to be equivalent to a doctoral degree. This eligibility requirement must be met before the employment decision is made.
In the first instance, those who have completed their degree no more than three years prior to the end of the application period shall be considered. Those who have completed their degree more than three years prior to the end of the application period may also be considered in the first instance if special grounds exist. Special grounds relate to leave of absence due to illness, parental leave, commissions of trust within union organisations, service within the defence services or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or service/assignment relevant to the subject area.
Assessment criteria
The successful candidate must have:
- A PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related field
- Strong background in large-scale data analysis within life sciences
- Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal
- Experience in microbial genomics and mobilomics (advantageous)
- Knowledge of machine learning techniques applied to genomic data (advantageous)
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Assessment: We will assess candidates based on their scientific skills, creativity, and potential for development. Experience in international collaboration, strong publication record, and the ability to attract research funding are highly meritorious. Interest in student supervision and teaching is an advantage.
Regulations for the evaluation of qualifications for academic positions are given in Chapter 4, Section 3 – 4 of the Higher Education Ordinance.
Employment
The employment is full time and temporary, two years with the possibility of one year’s extension, with placement at the Institute of Biomedicine. First day of employment as agreed.
Selection process
How to apply: https://www.gu.se/en/work-at-the-university-of-gothenburg/how-to-apply
Contact information
If you have any questions about the position, please contact researcher Astrid von Mentzer, phone +46 (0) 769 410890, mail astrid.von.mentzer@gu.se
website: vonmentzerlab.com
Unions
Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg can be found here: https://www.gu.se/om-universitetet/jobba-hos-oss/hjalp-for-sokande
Application
Submit your application via the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal by clicking the “Apply” button. It is your responsibility to ensure that the application is complete as per the vacancy notice, and that the University receives it by the final application deadline.
The application should contain:
– A cover letter giving a brief description of previous research experience, and a motivation to why you are applying
– A CV including a list of publications including three selected papers where you describe your role
– Contact details of two references
– Proof of completed PhD
Applications must be received by: 2024-10-02
Information for International Applicants
Choosing a career in a foreign country is a big step. Thus, to give you a general idea of what we and Gothenburg have to offer in terms of benefits and life in general for you and your family/spouse/partner please visit:
https://www.gu.se/en/about-the-university/welcome-services
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The University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions, and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.
Salaries are set individually at the University.
In accordance with the National Archives of Sweden’s regulations, the University must archive application documents for two years after the appointment is filled. If you request that your documents are returned, they will be returned to you once the two years have passed. Otherwise, they will be destroyed.
In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.