PhD scholarship on comparative genomics - “The interface between ecology, evolution and development based on large-scale genomics”

A 3-year PhD position on comparative genomics analysis is offered at The Centre for Social Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. The position starts 1 September 2017 and will be associated with the 3-year research project “The interface between ecology, evolution and development based on large-scale genomics” from the Carlsberg Foundation. See http://socialevolution.ku.dk/home/ for information about the Centre for Social Evolution and its ongoing research.
ProjectAn important goal of eco-evo-devo is to address the genetic basis underlying life-history responses of organisms to their natural environment. The Bird genome 10K (B10K) and Global Ant Genome Alliance (GAGA) projects, which focus on birds and ants, representing two of the most successful animal lineages worldwide that occupy all the major ecological niches, provide an unprecedented opportunity to address this fundamental question. We have now completed the genome sequencing for over 300 bird species covering all families in the avian class. The GAGA consortium has been initiated last year and will generate the genomes for at least 300 ant species covering all ant genera in coming three years. By integrating these large-scale genomic data and other available ecological data and life-history traits information, this project aims to reveal the fundamental ways in which environmental factors have shaped the animal genome evolution and to understand the role of symbiogenesis as a force in animal evolution.

The PhD project will largely focus on the analysis of large-scale genomic data, developing computation tools or modify existing analytical approaches, but will also involve a limited amount of wet lab experiments.

The successful candidate will become an integrated part of the research group of Guojie Zhang. The group works on comparative genomics and functional genomics on a broad spectrum of animal species. The project will be carried out at the Centre for Social Evolution, Section for Ecology and Evolution located in Copenhagen.
QualificationsWe are looking for an enthusiastic and ambitious candidate with a MSc degree in genetics/bioinformatics/biodiversity/evolution/ecology/zoology obtained by 31 August 2017. The position is open to both Danish and international applicants. An interest in working in the interface of ecology, evolution and genomics is required. Prior experience in bioinformatics is preferred but not essential. However, interest in developing skills in bioinformatics and computing is important. Computer programming skills in a relevant language, eg. C/C++, Perl, Python, R or Matlab would be an advantage. Good English language skills will be required. The main criterion for selection will be the research potential of the candidate.
ApplicationThe application must contain:
• A letter of motivation for the application with statement of research interests (max 1 page)
• A curriculum vitae (max 2 pages)
• List of publications (if applicable)
• Copy of Bachelor and Masters Diplomas and transcripts – other relevant certificates, including grades
• A short abstract of the M.SC. thesis or equivalent
• Contact details of at least two persons for reference
Procedures and shortlistingAfter the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee. All applicants are then immediately notified whether their application has been passed for assessment by an expert assessment committee. Selected applicants are notified of the composition of the committee and each applicant has the opportunity to comment on the part of the assessment that relates to the applicant himself/herself.

The final selection of successful candidates will be made by the Head of Department, based on the recommendations of the assessment committee. Successful candidates will then be requested to formally apply for enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD school of the Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen. For more information see: http://www.science.ku.dk/english/research/phd
Terms of salary and employmentTerms of appointment and payment are in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Danish Federation of Professional Associations (AC). The starting salary for candidates with an MSc degree will be a minimum of DKK 309.109 (April 2016 level) plus pension contribution, with the possibility of salary negotiation.

The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Please forward your application via the job portal of The University of Copenhagen at Job Portal:
http://employment.ku.dk/phd/?show=889392

Press “APPLY NOW” to fill in the application form.

The deadline for the application is March 30, 2017. Interviews will be held in April.

Applications received after the deadline, or with insufficient documentation or otherwise not complying with the above requirements, may not be considered. It is expected that the successful candidate will be enrolled at the PhD School of Science no later than September 1, 2017.

For further information on the project contact Assistant Prof. Guojie Zhang, [Email Address Removed] Ph.: +4591855431. **Please do not post your application to this address**