Vacancies
Postdoc: Computational modeling of signaling
pathways and gene regulatory networks responsible for Th17 cell
differentiation
Postdoc: Computational modeling of signaling pathways and gene regulatory networks responsible for Th17 cell differentiation
Research:
- Lymphocytes are central in the
regulation of immune response. T-lymphocytes differentiate into
functionally distinct subsets. Proper regulation of the balance
between various subsets is crucial for an optimal immune system
and for host defense against pathogens and cancer. Recently, a
new T-cell subset, Th17, which plays a central role in host
defense, was discovered. In this project, our aim is to
identify the underlying regulatory mechanisms and molecular
networks that govern the formation of Th17 cells.
We will achieve this by generating comprehensive datasets and
performing state-of-the art computational modeling based on
these data. The data sets will include time series RNA and
miRNA expression data, siRNA perturbation experiments based on
kinome and phosphatome libraries, (phospho)protein expression
and Chip-Seq data. To construct the computational models, we
will build both data-driven machine learning models and
knowledge-driven (logical and Petri-net) models of the
regulatory networks. Our aim is to fuse the results of these
two approaches to obtain a single, hybrid model. Computational
predictions of key control mechanisms will be tested
experimentally and the resulting data will be employed to
refine the models.
Job description:
- The successful candidate will be
primarily responsible for constructing models of the regulatory
Th17 developmental networks, developing new computational
methodologies where required and liaising with the
computational and biological partners in this project.
Location:
- The position is embedded within the
Bioinformatics and statistics group lead by Dr Lodewyk Wessels
at the Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam. We will
collaborate with the groups of Drs Harri Lahdesmaki and Riitta
Lahesmaa in Finland and with Dr Brigitta Stockinger in the
UK.
Requirements:
- MSc or PhD in one of the following areas: bioinformatics, engineering, computer science, statistics, physics, biotechnology, or biology.
- Knowledge of fundamental aspects of immune system biology, and signalling pathways in general.
- Knowledge of fundamental aspects of computer science (algorithms and data structures, programming languages), statistics, artificial intelligence and bioinformatics is highly desirable.
Conditions of Employment:
- The successful
candidate will be employed by the Netherlands Cancer Institute.
The employment conditions follow general employment rules as
laid down in the 'CAO' for hospitals. The salary will be
determined depending on education and experience.
Contact and Applications:
- Dr. Lodewyk Wessels,
tel. +31 20 512 7987 or e-mail: . Applicants should send a CV, list of
publications and the names and addresses of at least two
persons that can be approached to obtain further
information.
Closing date:
- 1 July 2010