Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Cancer Epigenetics

Your group

The research group of Oliver Stegle looks for a postdoctoral researcher to join a collaborative project with the goal to apply computational methods to investigate the processes that change the epigenetic landscape of colorectal cancer cells and promote metastasis.

Our research group is pioneering computational methods for deciphering molecular variation across individuals, space, and time. We have a track record in the development of computational methods for genetics, high-throughput omics data and causal discovery. Our interdisciplinary and international team is jointly located at DKFZ and EMBL Heidelberg, and is connected to the vibrant local ecosystem for data science, machine learning and computational biology in Heidelberg (including ELLIS Life Heidelberg and the AI Health Innovation Cluster ).

Your role

You will work in an international team together with experimentalists and other computational scientists to develop and apply tailored computational methods that are designed to fully exploit clinical and organoid data obtained as part of a transnational project. This project investigates the epigenetic changes during the progression of human metastatic colorectal cancer (CC), and aims to leverage ctDNA status to personalise the post-surgical care of early-stage CC.
Possible directions within this project include:

• Data integration and analysis to identify cis-regulatory elements
• Analysis of 3D genome organisation for the identification of transcription factors and gene programs
• Spatial profiling in primary tumours to identify spatial gene signatures

The project can be adapted to match the qualifications and interests of possible candidates and we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet all, but some of the requirements below.

You have

• A PhD or equivalent qualification in computer science, statistics, mathematics, physics, and/or engineering, or a degree in biological science with demonstrated experience in computational and statistical development.
• Experience with implementing statistical learning or machine learning (e.g. Bayesian inference, deep-learning).
• Programming skills in Python and experience with frameworks like PyTorch, Keras, Pyro or TensorFlow.
• The motivation and dedication to lead a scientific project and you are a supportive, creative and responsible team member.

You may also have

• Expertise in biological data science and data-driven discovery, scientific programming and (epi)genetic analysis. We encourage applications also from candidates with little background in biology or medicine, and a keen interest to learn.

Professional development support

The EMBL Fellows’ Career Service provides support and guidance to predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows across all six EMBL’s sites.

Working with a dedicated Careers Advisor, this invaluable service will help you to take informed decisions about your career planning both in the short and longer term. Whether your main interest is pursuing a career path in academia, exploring opportunities in industry or exploring an independent venture, the EMBL Fellows’ Career Service will provide you with a portfolio of activities and resources to help you.

To find out more please visit – EMBL-fellows-career-service

Why join us

Join a culture of innovation
We are located on the Wellcome Genome Campus, alongside other prominent research and biotech organisations, and surrounded by beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside. This is a highly collaborative and inclusive community where our employees enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. We are committed to ensuring our employees feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their professional potential.

Enjoy lots of employee benefits:

• Financial incentives: Monthly family and child allowances, generous stipend reviewed yearly, pension scheme, death benefit and unemployment insurances

• Flexible working arrangements including hybrid working patterns

• Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family

• Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year in addition to public holidays

• Campus life: Free shuttle bus to and from work (Heidelberg), on-site library, subsidised on-site gym and cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely)

• Family benefits: Kindergarten (Heidelberg), 10 days of child sick leave, paid maternity & parental leave, holiday clubs on campus and monthly family and child allowances

What else you need to know

• International applicants: We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Read more on our page for international applicants .

• Diversity and inclusion: At EMBL, we strongly believe that inclusive and diverse teams benefit from higher levels of innovation and creative thought. We encourage applications from women, LGBTQ+ & individuals from all nationalities.

• Job location: All our fellowships are based on-site (for at least part of each week). If you are living overseas, you will receive a generous relocation package to support you.

• EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here

• How to apply: To apply please submit a cover letter and a CV through our online system. We aim to provide a response within two weeks after the closing date.

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