We are seeking an additional PhD student in bioinformatics/computational biology with an interest in neurobiology and stem cell biology.
One of the research interests of the Martin-Villalba lab is adult neurogenesis, which we study with the aim of understanding its potential for regenerative therapy.
To investigate this process, we employ and develop cutting-edge single-cell omics techniques, including a novel method called scNMT-seq that simultaneously quantifies gene expression, DNA methylation, and chromatin accessibility from each cell.
We recently used this method to identify a unique DNA methylation profile in adult neural stem cells (
see our pre-print) and now aim to test our hypothesis that this profile underlies their stem cell properties.
The ideal candidate should have a background in a quantitative discipline (e.g. bioinformatics, mathematics, physics) and a degree in a relevant field. Previous experience working with omics or single-cell data is preferred but not strictly required. Fluency in written and spoken English, interdisciplinary communication skills, and a passion for science are essential. Familiarity with the command line on Linux or Mac is also desirable.
We offer a stimulating research environment in Heidelberg, secure funding, and opportunities to collaborate with other scientists. As a PhD candidate, you will work closely with molecular biologists to design experiments, analyze the generated data, and interpret and present the results. Single-cell epigenetics data is still relatively uncommon and underutilized, which also presents a unique opportunity for the successful PhD candidate to develop new computational methods and make significant contributions to this emerging field. This project is an exciting chance to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of bioinformatics, epigenetics and neurobiology.
To apply, please send a CV, letter of recommendation, a short outline of your research interests, and optionally a work sample (e.g. a technical report on a project or a link to a GitHub repo).
This position is offered in collaboration with the Project Group of Prof. Simon Anders at the BioQuant Centre of the University of Heidelberg. The Anders group develops bioinformatics methods for exploration of and inference on omics data.
Contact Information:
Prof. Ana Martin-Villalba
a.martin-villalba@dkfz.de