Computational Systems Biology position at EMBL-EBI PDF Print E-mail
Written by Administrator   
Wednesday, 17 February 2010 14:37

Staff scientist position in Computational Systems Biology at EMBL-EBI (Hinxton, UK)

VACANCY NOTICE (VN/10/013/EBI - February 2010)
Member States of EMBL (Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the associate member state Australia) are advised that applications are being sought for the following position at the Laboratory’s Outstation, The European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI), in Hinxton, near Cambridge, UK:


RESEARCH SCIENTIST/BIOINFORMATICIAN/SOFTWARE ENGINEER
Grade:  6 or 7 depending on experience and qualification
Duty Station: Hinxton, near Cambridge, UK
Group: Saez-Rodriguez
Commencing Date: June 2010


JOB DESCRIPTION
The focus of the Saez-Rodriguez group is to build predictive mathematical models of the transfer of information within mammalian cells using high-throughput experimental data. We combine statistical methods with models describing the mechanisms of signal transduction either as logical or physico-chemical systems. We then use these models to better understand how signalling is altered in human disease and predict effective therapeutic targets.
We develop computational methods and tools to support our research (which runs in close collaboration with experimental groups), but we also provide these tools to the scientific community. We are also involved in a community effort to advance the inference of mathematical models of cellular networks: DREAM (Dialogue for Reverse Engineering Assessments and Methods; see http://wiki.c2b2.columbia.edu/dream/index.php/The_DREAM_Project). DREAM is articulated around "challenges" posed to the community, and discussion of the results in an annual meeting. The results and methods are then shared with the community.
The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in the development and application of the tools developed in the group. This will involve implementation of specifications previously discussed with other members of the groups and collaborators, and a moderate support of users. Furthermore, (s)he will take part as well as in the analysis and distribution of the results obtained from DREAM, together with the co-organisers and participants.


QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Applicants will have a strong background in computer science or engineering, and good programming skills. They will ideally hold a degree in engineering/informatics, but a degree in biological science with demonstrated experience in computational work (e.g. a post-graduate qualification in computer science or bioinformatics) is also possible. A background in biology is not strictly necessary but recommended. A good foundation in (and previous usage of) methods of any of the following fields is advantageous: statistics, data mining, machine learning, optimisation, control theory, systems theory, cybernetics, and dynamical systems.
Previous experience developing computational methods and implemented them in software in a scientifical context is expected. The ideal applicant will have demonstrated ability to work independently and creatively, ideally by accomplishment of a Ph.D. or similar research project. Previous experience tackling biological questions is highly desirable but not essential. Experience handling and analysing large datasets is very beneficial, as is communicating scientific results in scientific conferences and papers.
The ideal candidate must have large programming experience. An advanced knowledge of Matlab, as well as basic of R/Bioconductor and Java, are desired. Knowledge of other languages such as Python, Perl, and C/C++, and of web development, are a plus.
The successful applicant will feel comfortable interacting with others in an interdisciplinary setting, since research will run in close collaboration with experimental groups. An intense interactions with other computational groups at an international level is also expected via the DREAM initiative. S(he) should have good written and oral communication skills.


An initial contract of 3 years will be offered to the successful candidate. This can be renewed, depending on circumstances at the time of review.

CLOSING DATE: 21.03.2010

For further information please visit http://www.embl.org/ and http://www.ebi.ac.uk/. EMBL is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation.

Please note that EMBL-EBI does not return CVs or attached documents to applicants.

To apply, please email a cover letter, CV (in English) and contact information of three professional references quoting ref. no. VN/10/013/EBI in the subject line, to: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
General enquiries may be sent to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or to the following address:

Personnel, EMBL-EBI, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SD.
Last Updated on Tuesday, 09 March 2010 13:53