Description
The VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology is hiring an enthusiastic postdoctoral scientist to develop and implement data analysis workflows for (meta)genomics data analyses, in the context of the Horizon Europe ODIN project on environmental surveillance of pathogens. This position is part of an exciting international project, where the successful candidate will contribute to building data analysis pipelines, data processing aimed at advancing genetic surveillance in developing countries, and local capacity building around these topics. These pipelines will facilitate genetic surveillance by integrating with initial data acquisition processes, performing initial data interpretation and quality control, centralizing data collection, implementing data processing workflows, and developing a dashboard for interactive data visualization and analysis – this in close collaboration with internal (VIB and Ghent University) as well as external partners.
The successful candidate has strong data analytical skills and can rely on previous experience in high-throughput (meta-)genomics data analysis (including amplicon sequencing and shotgun sequencing data), developing data analysis pipelines, and data storage. Moreover, the candidate is genuinely interested in genomic surveillance, quality control, and FAIR data dissemination, and is eager to collaborate in a multidisciplinary, highly international environment.
The postdoctoral scientist will be a key bioinformatician in an international project. Their main focus will be on:
- Setting up bioinformatic processes to analyse nucleotide sequencing data, notably including amplicon sequences and metagenomes generated (in situ) from environmental samples
- Developing workflows that will facilitate targeted analyses
- Developing workflows that will facilitate generation of easy-to-understand reports from raw sequence data
- Develop methods for data sharing in real-time
Profile
The candidate has:
- Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biostatistics or equivalent
- Well-developed knowledge of state-of-the-art (meta)genomics data analysis
- Hands-on experience in a Linux/Unix server environment and with relevant languages (e.g. Python), working in a cluster or cloud computing environment, developing pipelines (e.g. in Nextflow), relational and NoSQL databases
- Keen interest in FAIR data, quality control, containerizing (e.g. Docker), data visualization
- Previous experience in (meta)genomics surveillance projects is a plus
Moreover, the candidate:
- Is highly motivated, result-driven with the ability to organise and prioritise workload
- Has excellent oral and written communication skills
- Can work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
We offer
Our Center greatly values diverse standpoints and promotes an inclusive environment in which everyone is respected. The candidate will be offered a three-year contract. We provide a supportive and international environment in a world-class academic context while contributing to a global health initiative, and a rewarding and highly stimulating working environment with the opportunity for training and skill development.
How to apply?
Motivated candidates are asked to apply online.
