A Ph.D. student position in Paleogenetics and infectious diseases
Where did the Vikings come from? How did the ancient Israelites arrive in Israel? How did they respond to infectious diseases? Did they stay or leave? These are some of the questions that we can now approach using ancient DNA and novel bioinformatics tools. Coupling Ancient DNA, which is one of the most exciting emerging fields in genetics, with novel tools, built at our labs and elsewhere, we can make historical and evolutionary inferences.
Overview: The Elhaik and Carlsson labs are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Ph.D. student to study the population history of human populations and how they responded to infectious diseases
Deadline for applying: 20 Feb 2023 Start date: ASAP
Supervisors: Lead supervisor: Dr. Eran Elhaik (Lund University, Sweden) https://portal.research.lu.se/en/persons/eran-elhaik Co-supervisors: Dr. Fredric Carlsson (Lund University, Sweden), https://portal.research.lu.se/en/persons/fredric-carlsson
The project: 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 they respond to epidemics, and the timing, rate, and extent of adaptive evolution in response to infectious diseases or environmental changes. 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. Elhaik, Dr. Carlsson, and experts in the field 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. Candidates are expected to have a strong grounding in programming in python (essential), Javascript (strongly recommended), R (essential), and math/statistics. Knowledge and experience with Machine Learning methods are advantageous. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties).
The team: The Ph.D. student will be embedded within Dr. Eran Elhaik's lab (http://www.eranelhaiklab.org/) in the Biology Department at Lund University's excellent research environment.
The training: Unlock the evolutionary history of humankind by joining our dynamic research team at the forefront of cutting-edge scientific discoveries. As a Ph.D. student in our department, you will be immersed in a stimulating environment with diverse research groups exploring the latest advancements in biology, bioinformatics, and computation. You will have the opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of genetics and develop cutting-edge models to answer some of the most intriguing questions in the field. From investigating ancient migration patterns to understanding how populations respond to epidemics and environmental changes, you will be at the forefront of scientific discoveries. With a comprehensive training plan tailored to your needs, you will gain the skills and knowledge needed to become an expert in your field and make a meaningful impact on the world of science. We have state-of-the-art resources and labs to give you the opportunity to make a lasting impact on our understanding of our genetic history. Collaborate with top supervisors and researchers from around the globe as you work towards successfully completing your project.
How to apply: To apply, see: https://lu.varbi.com/en/what:job/jobID:586284/
Contact Dr. Eran Elhaik for questions eran.elhaik@biol.lu.se
