Computational Biology Postdoc (f/m/d) – Single-Cell Genomics / Pediatric Cancer / Stem Cells

Are you interested in deciphering the developmental origins of childhood cancers?
Do you have experience analyzing genomics data and would you like to learn more about developing your own research projects? Then this position is ideal for you!

The Halbritter Group is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher (f/m/d) interested in applying and developing bioinformatics methods for analyzing genomics data at the interface of cancer and developmental biology. Join our multi-disciplinary team and get your hands on data from cutting-edge technologies and use computational approaches to tackle some of the unresolved mysteries in cancer biology.

Our team aims to understand the earliest cellular and molecular changes that occur in childhood cancers. By achieving a mechanistic understanding of the underlying biology, we hope to inspire new diagnostics and treatments. Our work ranges from the analysis of tumor specimens (https://doi.org/10.1158/2159-8290.CD-19-0138), through in vitro modelling of tumorigenesis (https://doi.org/10.1101/2022.11.21.515753), to the development and evaluation of bioinformatics methods (https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.03.28.534443). In a new project, recently funded by the Austrian Science Fund (https://doi.org/10.55776/PAT1300223), we will model embryonal tumors using organoid technology. You will contribute to ongoing and new projects with your know-how in data analysis, participate in the planning, design and oversight of experimental work, and actively develop your own research ideas.

Your responsibilities

• Data analysis:You will analyze genomics data (e.g., single-cell RNA/ATAC-sequencing, spatial transcriptomics), and interpret your results to understand and communicate their significance
• Bioinformatics: You will keep on top of the latest developments in the field, survey and test methods, and may customize and develop algorithms yourself to get the job done.
• Learning: You will take a deep interest in cancer and developmental biology, and learn to ask and answer questions to enable new biological insights.
• Leading research:You will be a key driver of this project involved in and shaping all stages of the process. You will work with high scientific integrity and rigor.
• Dissemination:You will present your work at conferences, apply for fellowships, and write manuscripts.
• Teamwork:You will work in a highly collaborative multi-team environment alongside computational and experimental biologists and in constant exchange with collaborators around the globe.

Your profile

What you bring for this position:

• PhD in a relevant subject, e.g., bioinformatics, computational biology, or biostatistics, preferably with previous research in cancer or developmental biology
• An understanding of molecular and developmental biology, ideally in the field of cancer research
• Previous experience with applied genomics data analysis is essential, e.g., (sc)RNA-seq, (sc)ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq, or spatial transcriptomics
• Experience with at least one computer programming / scripting language (R, Python, Julia, etc.)
• A sound understanding of statistics, comfortable working in a Unix-based computing environment
• Passionate about reproducible, transparent, and open research
• Team player with proactive “getting things done’’ mentality
• Well-organized, determined, ambitious
• Excellent verbal and written English language skills (German is not required)

Our offer

Does this sound interesting? This is our offer to you: 

• A challenging role in a meaningful, inspiring, and international environment
• Close interactions with researchers and clinician-scientists at neighboring institutions
• A supportive working atmosphere in a multi-disciplinary team
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities
• Support for career development via courses and hands-on training (e.g. presentation skills, writing)
• Participation in international conferences, excellent networking opportunities
• An outstanding working atmosphere in young and dynamic team
• Flexible working hours with home office, discounted lunch, social and sports activities and other great benefits
• Great location in the center of Vienna, a capital of biomedical research in Europe with excellent quality of life
• A fair and attractive salary package according to the Austrian Science Fund FWF (FWF Personnel Costs and Salary Rates — FWF)

Who we are

The St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute (St. Anna CCRI), located in the center of Vienna, the most livable city in the world and one of the most important sites for biomedical research in Europe. St. Anna CCRI is a multidisciplinary and internationally networked center of excellence whose goal is to contribute to a sustainable improvement in the cure rates of childhood and adolescent cancers through innovative research and development. Due to the close cooperation between clinic and research, St. Anna CCRI offers the ideal environment for cutting-edge research at a high international level and its implementation in clinical practice. and its translation into clinical practice.

St. Anna CCRI is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to providing a work environment of mutual respect to everyone without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, age, gender identity or expression, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.

Find more information here: https://ccri.at/

Your application

We are looking forward to your application! Applications should at least contain your Curriculum Vitae, a cover letter detailing your motivation, a list of publications (explain your most important contributions) and the contact details of 2-3 scientific references. A short proposal (max. 1 page) for a research project you would like to pursue would be welcome.

The application deadline ends on 20.10.2024. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.