Doctoral student in Biology - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Biology is the broad subject about all living things. It encompasses everything from processes at the molecular and cellular level to global processes at ecosystem level. The subject is divided into a range of sub-disciplines and specialisations. The PhD programme at the Department of Biology includes many of these specialisations, from molecular biology to applied ecology, from viruses and individual cells to evolutionary biology and global biodiversity. Taking on research studies at the Department of Biology generally means focusing on a delimited part of the research area of biology and may include field studies, experiments, theoretical studies, or a combination of these.

Work duties
The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties, up to 20%.

Ancient DNA (aDNA) has changed history studies, enabling us to analyze early genetic variation directly. In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in the amount of collected aDNA and high-profile investigations. Still, insufficient information about the geographical origin and admixture has limited the usefulness of the collected data. 

The project aims to develop population genetic models and investigate population history in human populations. We ask questions like how, where, and when populations migrated, how did they respond to epidemics, as well as the timing, rate, and extent of adaptive evolution in response to infectious diseases or changes in the environment.

Candidates are expected to be interested in biology and history alongside solid computational skills in at least two coding languages. The position is suited for someone trained in population genetics/evolutionary genomics or someone with a strong quantitative background in statistics, physics, computer science, and/or a related field. The candidate will work jointly with Dr. Eran Elhaik and experts to develop statistical methods for projects in population genetics and infectious diseases.

This is a multi-disciplinary project involving programming and modeling. The successful applicant will develop and apply state-of-the-art paleogenomic tools and write up the results for publication in scientific journals. The project will involve collaborations with researchers in other disciplines, including biostatistics (e.g., association studies), cell biology, epidemiology, and molecular biology. It is also expected that the successful applicant will participate in the daily activities at the MCBU.  

Admission requirements 
A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she: 

•  has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or

•  has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or

•  has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

A person meets the specific admission requirements for third cycle studies in Biology if he or she has passed an independent project (for example a degree project) of at least 30 credits in a relevant subject and have good oral and written proficiency in English.

Additional requirements

• Candidates must have a Master’s degree in quantitative genetics, computational biology, physics, computer science, statistics, or a similar field.
• Candidates must have strong computer skills in at least two programming languages, including Python, Javascript, R, or a similar language.
• Strong foundation in Mathematics/statistics 
• Candidates must be driven with a good ability to work both independently and as part of a group.
• Candidates must have excellent oral and written proficiency in English.  

In addition to the mandatory requirements, documented experience in the following areas will be considered as strong merits:

• Candidates should have practical experience with genetics, evolution, big data, or machine learning methods.
• Candidates should have good teaching skills.
• Experience in data processing, statistical computing, and scripting in Javascript
• Training or experience with machine learning

Assessment criteria
Selection for third-cycle studies is based on the student’s potential to profit from such studies. The assessment of potential is made primarily on the basis of academic results from the first and second cycle. Special attention is paid to the following: 

• Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of study.
• An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
• Written and oral communication skills
• Other experience relevant to the third-cycle studies, for example professional experience.

Consideration will also be given to strong collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programe. 

Terms of employment
Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1–7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply
Applications should be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the postgraduate education programme and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, grade transcripts, contact information for your references, and two letters of recommendation. Questions about this position can be emailed to Dr. Eran Elhaik, eran.elhaik@biol.lu.se