Postdoctoral Fellowship in Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Genomics

National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health
Computational and Statistical Genomics Branch
United States Maryland Bethesda
irp.nih.gov/pi/andy-baxevanis

Description

Computational and Statistical Genomics Branch
National Human Genome Research Institute
National Institutes of Health

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Bioinformatics and Evolutionary Genomics

A postdoctoral training position is currently available in the Computational and Statistical Genomics Branch (CSGB) of the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI). The position is located in the laboratory of Andy Baxevanis, Ph.D., whose research group uses comparative genomics approaches to better-understand the molecular innovations that drove the surge of diversity in early animal evolution. The overarching theme of Dr. Baxevanis’ research program is focused on how non-traditional animal models can be used to convey critical insights into human disease research, in line with the NIH Intramural Research Program’s renewed emphasis on developing new animal models for the study of basic biology.

With this translational context in mind, Dr. Baxevanis’ group is currently leading an international effort to sequence two cnidarian species: Hydractinia echinata and Hydractinia symbiolongicarpus. The regenerative abilities of these colonial hydrozoans make them excellent models for the study of key questions related to pluripotency, allorecognition, and stem cell biology, work that will be significantly advanced by the availability of high-quality whole-genome sequencing data from these organisms. In addition, and in collaboration with colleagues at the Whitney Marine Laboratory of the University of Florida, the group is also now focusing on polychaete species that show particular promise for advancing our understanding of regeneration and early developmental processes. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to develop and apply bioinformatic approaches to these and other large-scale genomic data sets, focusing on the evolution of specific protein families and biological pathways that have putative roles in disease causation.

The NIH Intramural Research Program is on the Bethesda, Maryland campus and offers a wide array of training opportunities for scientists early in their careers. The funding for this position is stable and offers the trainee wide latitude in the design and pursuit of their research project. The successful candidate will have access to NHGRI’s established and robust bioinformatics infrastructure, as well as a ‘Top 500’ high-performance computing resource made available through NIH’s Center for Information Technology (CIT).

For more information, please visit irp.nih.gov/pi/andy-baxevanis.

The NIH is dedicated to building a diverse community in its training and employment programs.


Qualifications

Candidates should have or be close to obtaining a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, molecular biology, or a closely related field. Candidates with a background in evolutionary biology are particularly encouraged to apply. Programming skills and experience in the application of computational methods to genomic data are highly desirable. Applicants must possess good communication skills and be fluent in both spoken and written English. The ability to learn how to use new software and quickly become expert in its use, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work semi-independently are required.


Start date

As soon as possible

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a detailed letter of interest, and the names of three potential references to Dr. Baxevanis at andy@mail.nih.gov.


Contact

Andy Baxevanis, Ph.D.