Job Description: A research position is available in the group of Dr. Vikas Bansal based in the Division of Genome Information Sciences (Department of Pediatrics) at the University of California San Diego. The research in the group is focused on developing computational methods for the detection and analysis of DNA sequence variation using highthroughput DNA sequencing technologies and applying these methods to understand human disease. Projects of particular interest include:
(1) Identification of disease associated variants in rare and complex human diseases: We have generated targeted sequence data for more than 6500 individuals to assess the role of rare variants in early onset Type 2 diabetes. We are also working with investigators at UCSD to analyze whole-genome and whole-exome data from various human diseases. For this project, the selected candidate is expected to analyze and interpret large scale DNA sequence datasets, implement data analysis pipelines, develop new statistical methods and write manuscripts for publication.
(2) Detection of mutations in duplicated genes and analysis of structural variation in the human genome using the Hi-C technology, a method originally developed to study the 3-D architecture of genomes: This project involves both computational methods development and data generation (collaboration with a start-up genomics company). We have previously published a method to generate chromosomal-scale haplotypes using whole-genome Hi-C data (http://www.nature.com/nbt/journal/v31/n12/abs/nbt.2728.html).
Requirements:
Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, Bioinformatics or related field. Outstanding candidates with Bachelors or Masters degree will be considered.
Proficiency in programming (preferably in C/C++/Python) and bioinformatics skills
Experience working in a Unix/Linux computing environment with large datasets
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Candidates with strong analytical skills and background in algorithms/statistics or experience in analyzing highthroughput genomic datasets will be given preference
Contact Information:
To apply for this position, please send a brief cover letter, CV and contact information for references to Vikas Bansal (vibansal@ucsd.edu). More information about research projects and publications is available from https://sites.google.com/site/vibansal/
