Postdoctoral fellow – RNA extraction, optimisation, transcriptomics and biomarker measurements in repeated pre-diagnostic blood samples from colorectal cancer patients and healthy controls - Befattningen är under tillsättning eller redan tillsatt, och det är inte längre möjligt att lämna in en ansökan

We welcome applications for postdoctoral studies in integrative molecular epidemiology (colorectal cancer), focusing on transcriptomics and biomarker measurements, at the Department of Radiation Sciences, Umeå University, Sweden. The position is for two years, starting summer 2019, or upon other agreement.

Project description:

The research project aims to identify, distinguish between, and validate risk-predictive and diagnostic biomarkers of colorectal cancer. Combining blood-based biomarkers with refined risk profiling could allow more personalized colorectal cancer prevention and screening, through the identification of high-risk individuals for earlier or more frequent colonoscopy.

The postdoctoral fellowship will focus on optimising RNA extraction methods from biobanked blood samples to then generate and analyse RNA-seq or array data. Analysis of other biomarkers, such as protein markers or DNA methylation may also be included.

The successful applicant will be given the opportunity to develop independent research ideas, within the scope of the project, utilising resources from Swedish, European and international cohorts and consortia.

Eligibility and other qualifications required:

Candidates must hold a University degree equivalent to a European University PhD in a relevant biological or molecular biological subject at the time of recruitment. In normal case the doctorate exam should have been acquired within three years prior the last day for application to this position, unless special circumstances exist. Special circumstances include absence due to illness, parental leave or clinical practice or appointments of trust in trade union organizations.

Extensive research laboratory experience in molecular biology and specifically RNA biology, including RNA extraction from various materials and transcriptomics approaches (e.g. RNA-seq), are essential. A very good command of written and spoken English is required. Experience working with large datasets and R/Bioconductor is a major advantage but not a requirement, as is a publication track record in the RNA field.

We are looking for a highly motivated scientist who is quick to learn and has a demonstrated ability to work productively, both independently and in a multidisciplinary team. Preference will be given to candidates with superior analytic and communication skills. Please see link for examples of research from the group:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=Van+Guelpen+B

Application:

The application must contain

• A brief description of your research interests (max. A4 page) and why you are interested in the position.
• A CV
• Copies of PhD and other academic degrees.
• Contact information for two reference persons.

Other information:

For further information, please contact assistant university lecturer Bethany van Guelpen, bethany.vanguelpen@umu.se

The application must be completed using the Umeå University on-line recruitment system. The application deadline is May 6 2019.

We look forward to receiving your application!