Postdoctoral Position in Bioinformatics and Plant Paleogenomics

Lead the bioinformatic analyses of ancient plant DNA datasets. Develop and adapt advanced bioinformatic tools and pipelines for individual-based ancient DNA (aDNA) data, as well as sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) metabarcoding and metagenomics. Use these approaches to reconstruct changes in genetic diversity through time and investigate the genetic basis of adaptation to past environmental change. Integrate paleogenomic data with population genetic models to test competing hypotheses about postglacial range expansion and demographic change in European tree species. Collaborate with an interdisciplinary research team, provide scientific guidance to PhD and MSc students, present findings at international conferences, and publish results in leading peer-reviewed scientific journals.

UniBE is interconnected. With us, you're part of an international community and benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration. An exciting opportunity to work at the interface of bioinformatics, paleogenomics, and climate change research in a dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary research team at the University of Bern. Employment conditions follow the standards of the University of Bern and the SNSF. Strong research infrastructure and international network. The University of Bern is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

• PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, biology, or a related discipline and a strong interest in applying computational methods to evolutionary and ecological questions.

• Substantial experience in bioinformatics, next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis, and ancient DNA research is essential.

• Programming skills (e.g. Python and R), as well as experience with command-line tools and high-performance computing clusters are expected.

• Knowledge of population genetics, paleoecology, molecular biology, or vegetation ecology is an asset.

• Precision, creativity, and reliability, and strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

• A proven track record of scientific publications and an excellent command of English are expected.