Postdoctoral researcher

3 Postdoctoral researcher positions for quantitative approaches to the neuroscience and genetics of brain disorders, Jens Hjerling-Leffler group, Karolinska Institutet

Description of the Research group
The Hjerling-Leffler group (http://hjerling-leffler-lab.org) at The Division of Molecular Neurobiology is a part of the Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics (MBB), Karolinska Institutet. The Division of Molecular Neurobiology has a fantastic research environment with ample opportunity to interact with several world-leading research groups.
The Hjerling-Leffler group aims at understanding developmental and cell type-specific aspects of brain function and the aetiology of brain disorders in a quantitative manner. We work under the assumption that by starting off in genetics and by bringing our investigations to the levels of neuronal subtypes we can bring about a qualitative change in our understanding of the nervous system and its malfunctions (Zeisel et al., Science 2015, Skene et al., Nature Genetics 2018). We also believe that in order to maximize progress, neuroscience needs to move away from over-reductionistic approaches and instead embrace complexity and natural variability.
 

The positions
We invite applications for Postdoctoral positions for an ERC-funded project. Eligible candidates should have obtained a PhD no more than five years before starting the position. The project involves combining large scale singe-cell RNA-sequencing data from mice and humans with data from human genetics to investigate the cellular origin of polygenic heritability and cellular diversity in Schizophrenia (SCZ). This will advance our understanding of how genetic risks specific to different cell types affect the functional maturation of networks and its implications for development of SCZ pathology.
 

Profile of applicants
We seek highly motivated and independent Postdoc candidates with experience in either statistical modeling, single-cell transcriptomics, genetics of brain-disorders, or viral-based gene editing in vivo. The candidate will either perform experiments or work closely with experimentalists being responsible for data analysis and visualization as well as development of new computational methods for processing and analysis of large-scale omics data. We welcome applications from candidates with pure computational background and those combining experimental and theoretical approaches.
 

Qualifications
Any combination of the following:

• PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Neuroscience, Computer Science, Mathematics or a similar field. 
• Strong programming skills in Python, R, or Matlab
• Team player who is comfortable in interacting with a highly collaborative colleagues in an interdisciplinary setting (i.e. ability to work and communicate with biologists is essential)
• Previous work with RNA and high-throughput sample preparation of RNA and/or DNA as well as work with single-cell techniques is an advantage. 
• Experience in in vivo manipulation of gene expression by Crispr or similar

Application process

An application must contain the following documents in English:

• Curriculum vitae and qualifications
• A complete list of publications
• Summary of current work and statement of future research interests
• Contact details of two references

Karolinska Institutet is one of the world’s leading medical universities. Its vision is to significantly contribute to the improvement of human health. Karolinska Institutet accounts for the single largest share of all academic medical research conducted in Sweden and offers the country’s broadest range of education in medicine and health sciences. The Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet selects the Nobel laureates in Physiology or Medicine.
Pursuant to the regulations of the Swedish National Archives, applications are kept on file for two years after the appointment has gained legal force. The regulations do not apply to attachments that have been printed or otherwise published.
Karolinska Institutet strives to provide a workplace that has approximately the same number of women and men, is free of discrimination and offers equal opportunity to everyone.