Post-doctoral fellow in Biology with a focus on AI and Forensics - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The supervisor for this position, Dr. Eran Elhaik, led the compositional genomic analyses in over a dozen sequencing consortia, whose results were published in Science, Nature, PNAS, and Genome Research. Dr. Elhaik's lab is famous for its population genomics and biogeographical research http://www.eranelhaiklab.org/and collaborates with hundreds of researchers from all over the world.

Tracing DNA origins using AI-based tools

Subject description

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming forensics by enabling unprecedented precision in tracing the geographical origins and transmission routes of genomic sequences. Despite the growing availability of high-throughput genomic data, the lack of advanced analytical frameworks has hindered forensic efforts. This project aims to develop and apply AI-based methods to predict the origin and dispersal patterns of genomic sequences, with applications ranging from biogeographical mapping to paleogenetic reconstructions. The candidate will work jointly with Dr. Eran Elhaik to design machine-learning models that unlock the potential of genomics for forensic investigations and historical reconstructions.

Work duties

We aim to develop machine learning methods that localize microbial communities with an application to tracing the geographic origins of DNA segments recovered from various sites to answer questions about their sources and transmission routes.

This is an interdisciplinary project involving programming and modeling. In addition, the project includes collaborations with researchers in other disciplines, including biomathematics, biostatistics, and molecular biology. The candidate is expected to have a solid grounding in programming in R, Python, and mathematics/statistics.

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours (on this position most likely up to 16%). The position shall include the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning.

Detailed description of the work duties:

• The successful candidate will work fulltime on the above-outlined research project. It is expected that they will actively and creatively develop and optimize the detailed methods to pursue the overall project goals and, after a training period, independently analyze genomic data using machine learning and other statistical methods.
• All work will be carried out in a collaborative research team, requiring the sharing of expertise, open discussion of results, and the facilitation of experiments by other team members.
• Active participation at international conferences is expected, as well as dissemination of results in peer-reviewed publications.
• Opportunities for the supervision of degree projects (Bachelor and Master) as well as co-supervision of Ph.D. projects may be provided.
• Finally, the position may include limited administrative duties related to the work duties listed above.

Qualification requirements

Appointment to a postdoctoral position requires that the applicant has a Ph.D., or an international degree deemed equivalent to a Ph.D., within the subject of the position, completed no more than three years before the date of employment decision. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

The candidate must have a degree in mathematics, biostatistics, statistical genetics, or a similar relevant subject and experience analyzing large datasets and experience conducting such research. Candidates are also expected to have fundamental knowledge and demonstrated experience with Machine Learning methods. Applicants must have the ability to collaborate well and communicate scientific materials to non-scientists.

Additional essential requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Excellent programming skills, at least in bash, Python, and R.
• Strong statistic skills and experience with ML methods.
• Knowledge of common ML frameworks
• Experience in analyzing qualitative and quantitative NGS data
• A track record of publishing peer-reviewed academic papers
• Evidence of ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a small team.
• Evidence of ability to organize resources, plan, and progress work activities, and meet deadlines effectively and consistently.
• Experience in adapting their own skills to new circumstances.

Assessment criteria and other qualifications

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Additional assessment criteria:

• Candidates are expected to have an interest in biology and human history

Consideration will also be given to qualified candidates with good collaborative skills, drive and independence and how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

Candidates who satisfied the requirements would be further evaluated on programming and writing skills and, if successful, be invited for an interview.

Terms of employment

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2 years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a postdoctoral fellow”) between Lund University, SACO-S and OFR/S, dated 1st February 2022.

Instructions on how to apply

Applications shall be written in English and be compiled into a PDF-file containing:

• Cover letter (your background, why you are interested in the position, and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background, your goals, and start date)
• Résumé/CV, including a list of publications,
• A general description of past research and future research interests (no more than three pages),
• Contact information of at least three references,
• Copy of the doctoral degree certificate and grades for the Ph.D., MSc, and BA studies and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered