Postdoctoral position in functional genomics and cancer research

Job description

A three-year post-doctoral position in precision medicine is available in the group of Dr. Biswajyoti Sahu at the Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway (NCMM) in Oslo, Norway. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual for working in the field of functional epigenomics in cancer research and transcriptional regulation. We offer a position in an ambitious, multi-disciplinary and well-resourced group that is comprised of both wet-lab and computational scientists. Our group investigates the interplay between transcription factors and oncogenes using a rationale multi-cancer approach and modern genome-wide methods for regulatory genomic features and chromatin architecture. We utilize a wide range of cell-based models, organoid systems together with cutting-edge functional genomics approaches like routine ChIP-seq, CUT&RUN and HiChIP to advanced CRISPR-based approaches for genome editing, single-nuclei multiome RNA-seq and ATAC-seq assays for unbiased genome-wide analysis for understanding the phenotypic plasticity in different cancer cell states.

The position is for the recently funded EP PerMed Project – Targeting Transcription Factor Dynamics for Personalized Therapy in Ovarian Cancer – (DYNAMITE). The project is performed in collaboration with DYNAMITE consortium partners based in Finland and Denmark thus there is an opportunity for performing high-impact collaborative research. The post-doctoral project aims to uncover the epigenetic mechanisms underlying ovarian cancer relapse and therapy resistance utilizing state-of-the-art single-cell multiome analysis from patient samples and from organoid cultures.

Work tasks

The tasks will generally include one or more of the following:

• Establishing and performing single-cell multiome (RNA+ATAC) assays from cultured cell lines, tissue material and from organoid cultures.
• Designing and performing genome-wide functional genomics experiments in organoids using modern methods such as ATAC-seq, CUT&RUN, as well as CRISPR-based approaches.
• Molecular cloning and lentiviral expression systems
• Developing and adapting cutting-edge functional epigenomics assays based on Illumina sequencing
• Supervision and teaching of students and technicians in the laboratory
• Writing own grant applications

Qualification requirements

• A PhD degree in any relevant field of life sciences
• Successfully completed PhD with documented publication record in peer-reviewed journals
• Documented research experience in one or more of the following fields: transcriptional regulation, cancer biology, functional genomics and/or epigenomics
• Good understanding of molecular cloning methods and Illumina sequencing strategies
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

Ability to work independently as well as operating as a team player in multi-disciplinary projects is a must, and willingness to supervise students and staff is important. Prior experience in the following is considered a plus: functional genomics methods, organoid cultures, advanced cloning strategies and single-cell analysis methods. Knowledge about analysis of high-throughput functional genomics datasets and relevant programming languages (Python, Perl, R) although not required is a plus. A good understanding of molecular biology, genomics experiments and bioinformatics is expected. Candidates with proven track record in terms of publications will be given preference. 

We offer

• Salary 575 400 - 679 700 NOK per annum depending on qualification in position as Postdoctoral Fellow SKO (position code 1352).
• An exciting project utilizing cutting-edge functional genomics methods to understand the gene regulatory landscape in ovarian cancer.
• A position in a collaborative environment with consortium partners comprised of both wet-lab and computational biologists and physician scientists.
• Attractive welfare benefits and a generous pension agreement, in addition to the family-friendly environment with its rich opportunities for culture and outdoor activities in Oslo, Norway.

For more information about our current research operations and our latest publications (including Fei et al, Developmental Cell, 2023; Karttunen et al, Nature Communications, 2023; Sahu et al, Nature Genetics, 2022; Lahtinen et al, Cancer Cell 2023; and Zhang et al, Science Advances 2022). For more information visit: https://sahulab.org

The position is available to start in March 1st 2025.

How to apply

The application must include

• Cover Letter stating motivation and research interests
• A recent CV with a complete list of scientific publications
• Copies of certificates and grades with explanation of the grading system
• Two–three reference letters with contact details of the referees (name, relation to candidate, e-mail and telephone number)

The application with attachments must be delivered in our electronic recruiting system. Foreign applicants are advised to attach an explanation of their University's grading system. Please note that all documents should be in English.

It is expected that the successful candidate will be able to complete the project in the course of the period of employment.

Formal regulations

Please see the guidelines and regulations for appointments to Postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Oslo.

No one can be appointed for more than one Postdoctoral Fellow period at the University of Oslo.

According to the Norwegian Freedom of Information Act (Offentleglova) information about the applicant may be included in the public applicant list, also in cases where the applicant has requested non-disclosure.

Inclusion and diversity are a strength. The University of Oslo has a personnel policy objective of achieving a balanced gender composition. Furthermore, we want employees with diverse professional expertise, life experience and perspectives.

If there are qualified applicants with disabilities, employment gaps or immigrant background, we will invite at least one applicant from each of these categories to an interview.

Contact information

Inquiries about the positions can be directed to Group Leader Dr. Biswajyoti Sahu: biswajyoti.sahu@helsinki.fi

Inquiries about application can be directed to HR-adviser Nina Modahl: ninam@ncmm.uio.no