Computational postdoc position in cancer epigenomics

The job

The Computational Cancer Biology lab of Martin Schaefer is looking for a computational postdoctoral researcher.

Cancer is driven by alterations on all molecular levels. While our knowledge about the contribution of point mutations to the phenotypic hallmarks of cancer has advanced substantially over the last decade, we still need to solve the puzzle of how the numerous quantitative changes (eg epigenetic or transcriptional) are related to cancer initiation and progression. We are looking for a computational postdoc to develop models of selection to identify epigenetic drivers of carcinogenesis. This is a continuation of our previous work, in particular: Heery and Schaefer. NAR. 2021 and Alfieri, Caravagna and Schaefer. Nat Comm. 2023. There is also a video describing our quest for epigenetic drivers of tumor evolution: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZkQmMb1q60.

The successful candidate will work together with other members of the lab as well as with wet lab and clinical collaborators.

Candidates should hold a PhD in bioinformatics/computational biology, biostatistics, computer science or a related field. They should have expertise in statistics, programming, and the analysis of cancer omics data. Interest in network biology and knowledge of data science techniques such as machine learning and being familiar with concepts of tumor evolution are a plus.

At first, a one-year fellowship will be granted, with possible extensions.

This position is a great opportunity for candidates who recently obtained their PhD and would like to delve deeper into the understanding of cancer mechanisms through a systems biology and computational biology lens. We create a supportive and inclusive environment to let scientists explore and grow on interesting research questions.

Do you share our enthusiasm about the hidden drivers of cancer evolution? Then get in touch!

Don’t hesitate contacting us for informal inquiries. Or send us an application (which should include a CV, cover letter, a list of publications and contact details of 2 – 3 referees). The position is available immediately.

The workplace

The European Institute of Oncology (IEO) is one of Europe’s leading cancer research institutes. The lab is in the Department of Experimental Oncology (DEO), which is located on the IFOM-IEO campus in a central location of Milan. The IEO hosts an international and vibrant research community (with a growing computational component). It is strong in genomics analyses, clinical aspects and mechanistic understanding of cancer. The IEO has an excellent HPC infrastructure and core facilities. The institute and the lab provide a collaborative and diverse work environment. The working language is English.