Positions

Interested in a PhD or PostDoc in Computational Biology?

We are looking for candidates for both a PhD and PostDoc position in the Computational Biology Group (CBG) at the University of Lausanne. The group, headed by Prof. Sven Bergmann, develops and applies methods for the integrative analysis of large-scale biological and clinical data. It is part of the Department of Computational Biology (DBC), currently hosting nine research groups, and also affiliated with the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB). The University of Lausanne is a higher teaching and research institution composed of seven faculties where approximately 14,300 students and nearly 3,900 collaborators, professors, and researchers work and study. Ideally situated along the lake of Geneva, near Lausanne's city center, its campus brings together over 120 nationalities.

Presentation Our goals are to improve fundamental understanding of how genetic variability affects phenotypes, to learn about underlying molecular mechanisms, and to make use of our insights to improve the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of disease whenever possible. A focus of our research is the integration of molecular phenotypes, such as gene expression and metabolomics data, within the framework of genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We are interested in network-based and modular approaches to visualize such large-scale data and reduce their complexity. We use both statistical and computational methods and have an interest in machine learning (ranging from simple regression to more advanced artificial intelligence). A complementary direction of research pertains to relatively small genetic networks, whose components are well known. We collaborate closely with experts of the field to identify biological systems that can be modeled quantitatively.

Job information Expected start date: As soon as possible. Contract length: Initially for 1 year, can be extended twice for a maximum of 5 years total. Activity rate: 100%. Workplace: Genopode (at the main “Dorigny” campus of the University of Lausanne).

Your responsibilities Your research work will focus on the design, development, and application of computational approaches to analyze large-scale data, such as those from large human cohorts. You will enjoy great creative freedom to work on interesting questions within the research directions outlined above and come up with your own solutions. While advancing your project, you will profit from working in an interdisciplinary and highly collaborative team of fantastic human beings.

Your qualifications Most members of the CBG have a background in computer science, statistics, physics or related fields, but applicants with a background in Life Sciences are also welcomed to apply, provided they can demonstrate previous experience in computational biology and/or analysis of large-scale data. Good knowledge in programming and statistics is an advantage.

What we offer We offer a nurturing working environment with very competitive salaries. Our group is interdisciplinary, multicultural and dynamic. We consider your well-being as essential for working creatively at the forefront of Computational Biology and will provide various opportunities for personal development and professional training.

Contact for further information For further information please contact Prof. Sven Bergmann (sven.bergmann_AT_unil.ch) using the subject line ”PhD position in Computational Biology”. Formal applications need to be submitted via SuccessFactor, but you can send informal inquiries also by e-mail.

Your application Applications in Word or PDF will include a cover letter, CV, list of publications, and the names of at least three references. Only applications through this website will be taken into account.

Additional information Seeking to promote an equitable representation of men and women among its staff, the University encourages applications from women.

Switzerland offers very competitive academic salaries and a fantastic life-style in the Lake Geneva region and fanatstic hiking and skiing in the nearby Valais.