Postdoc in iPS, organoids and single-cell omics - DTU Bioengineering

DTU Bioengineering invites applications for Postdoc position, working at interface of stem cell models, single-cell multi-omics and computational biology. The exciting project involves integrating bulk, single-cell multi-modal datasets with method development.
We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow for a 3-year Postdoc position, to join the group of Associate Professor Kedar Natarajan from the 1 October or soon thereafter.

Our research
Our group investigates mechanisms underlying cell-fate decisions in stem cells (ES/iPS) and during differentiation to cell types of the central nervous system (CNS). To achieve this, we develop and use experimental single-cell methods including single-cell transcriptomics, ATAC-seq, multi-omics and spatial transcriptomics, while also leveraging computational approaches for large-scale analysis of next-generation sequencing data. In this new project, we aim to develop, implement models of neuron-glial organoid cultures, perform single-cell multi-modal assays to characterize gene regulatory networks and their crosstalk during fate specification. We focus on investigating targets, mechanism and impact of CRISPR perturbed gene regulatory networks in lineage specification and commitment.

The group is highly collaborative and interdisciplinary and is part of PSBT section at DTU Bioengineering. The candidate will interact with other groups at DTU Bioengineering, Health Technology and international partners. More details can be found at group page (http://www.bioengineering.dtu.dk/Kedar-Natarajan)

Responsibilities and qualifications
The successful candidate is expected to work on a project involving implementation of ES/iPS derived 3D organoid models for neuron and glial cultures, CRISPR target modulation and single-cell multimodal profiling, to understand regulatory networks and mechanisms driving differentiation. The project is highly interdisciplinary and will include primarily experimental work (i.e., molecular biology, ES/iPS culture, CRISPR, bulk and single cell assays (scRNA, scATAC, library preparation). Interest and prior computational experience are welcome and would be useful to the project.

You will be part of a collaborative research team that strives for scientific excellence. Training and support in all relevant areas will be provided.

We seek a motivated individual with a PhD in Molecular Biology, Developmental/stem cell biology, Biotechnology, or a comparable field with proficiency in stem cell derived brain organoid models. A strong background in CRISPR genome editing and documented experience with high-throughput sequencing libraries is expected. Experience with single-cell and computational data analysis are considered a plus.

We also welcome applications from PhD students expected to graduate. As a part of a multidisciplinary team and research environment, a collaborative mindset and proven ability to work in teams and communicate scientific research through presentations and submitted manuscripts is expected. The ability to work independently and driving research direction are valued. If you are highly driven, you will have opportunities to write grants for further strengthening research opportunities and participate in the broader collaborations.

We are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic researcher with following competences:

Essential experience and skills:

• PhD in Molecular biology, Developmental, Stem cell biology, Biotechnology, or a related discipline, with extensive experience in experimental lab-work
• Proficiency in stem cell derived brain organoid models
• Documented experience in CRISPR genome editing and sequencing library preparation
• High proficiency in spoken and written English

Desirable experience and skills:

• Programming skills (Python, R) and prior experience with computational data analysis incl. single-cell datasets
• Developmental neurobiology

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

You will be primarily based at DTU Bioengineering, and interact locally with other bioinformatics colleagues and groups at Bioengineering and DTU Health Technology, as well as our national, international partners.

Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Associate Professor Kedar Natarajan together with relevant project partners.

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and terms of employment
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 3 years.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Assoc. Prof. Kedar Natarajan ([email protected])

You can read more about the lab at http://www.bioengineering.dtu.dk/Kedar-Natarajan and DTU Bioengineering at www.bioengineering.dtu.dk/english

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 15 July 2024 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Cover letter describing your relevant scientific interests, competences and how that aligns with the focus of the project and group
• CV containing list of publications, prior research experience and skills relevant for the position.
• List of publications
• Contact information for 3 referees

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your PhD degree but cannot begin before having received it.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

The Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine (DTU Bioengineering) is an international leader in the areas of biotechnology and biomedicine. Our engineering approach to all aspects of biotechnology and biomedicine positions us as a valuable player with unique competences in a growing bio-based economy and with health systems transforming towards personalized medicine. We have a clear focus on the needs in the life science industry and point towards innovation, new businesses, and scientific services for the benefit of society. The department has extensive collaborations with national and international research units and industry. DTU Bioengineering has approx. 400 employees, of which 2/3 are scientific staff. The department is located at DTU Lyngby Campus.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.

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