A joint postdoctoral research position in the area of multi-omics data integration is available between the Saeys lab at VIB and GSK.  The successful candidate will apply state-of-the-art machine learning and statistical tools for integrating several types of omics and classical immune data in the area of vaccine research.

About the lab

The Saeys lab at the VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research studies the design and application of data mining and machine learning techniques for biomedical applications.  The lab is renowned for its research on single-cell technologies, including flow and mass cytometry, single-cell RNA sequencing, and is currently pioneering novel single-cell technologies including spatial transcriptomics and single-cell multi-omics (e.g. CITE-seq).

GSK is a science-led global healthcare company with a mission: to help people to do more, feel better, live longer.   Belgium is the heart of GSK Vaccines, with three major vaccine sites, in Wavre, Rixensart and Gembloux, including the global headquarters from the vaccines division of the group. That also means we represent the largest industrial network of vaccines worldwide. The translational research team in the R&D department focuses on complex immunological questions in order to improve vaccines and vaccine strategies. 

Your project

GSK conducted a clinical research study for exploring in depth the mechanisms of action of adjuvant systems. Adjuvant systems are used to improve vaccine immunogenicity and efficacy by enhancing antigen presentation to antigen-specific immune cells with the aim to confer long-term protection against targeted pathogens. We are interested in applying integrative data analysis approaches to characterize the antibody quality profile measured after vaccination.  

In this research project the main objectives are two-fold:  in a first step we want to perform an exploratory study that integrates different data types to paint a better picture of the antibody quality profile for the different adjuvanted vaccines.  In a subsequent analysis we want to link these antibody quality profiles to specific responses in the innate and adaptive immune system using a complementary set of read-outs.

Profile

• PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, bioengineering or similar
• Background in data mining, machine learning and statistics
• Working proficiency in appropriate programming languages and software (eg. R, Python)
• High intrinsic motivation and a strong scientific curiosity.
• Willingness to work across academy (VIB-Ghent University) and industry (GSK)
• Willingness to work at different locations (Ghent, Rixensart)
• Team player that can work independently in a multidisciplinary (international) team.
• Excellent oral and written English communication skills.
• Proactive, flexible, and problem-solving attitude.

We offer

• A full-time contract for two years at the interface of a state-of-the-art research institute and a top pharmaceutical company
• A stimulating (international, multidisciplinary) research environment where quality, professionalism and team spirit are encouraged.
• The ability to work on unique data in the area of systems vaccinology

The position is immediately available.

How to apply?

Please apply online via https://vibvzw.jobsoid.com/j/26795/gsk-postdoc-in-multi-omics-data-integration-for-systems-vaccinology
Please complete the online application procedure and include a detailed CV incl. list of publications, a motivation letter and the contact information of three referees.
For more information contact Yvan Saeys.

For more information:

• Website: http://www.vib.be/en/research/scientists/Pages/Yvan-Saeys-Lab.aspx

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Prof. dr. Yvan Saeys
VIB Group Leader Data mining and modeling for biomedicine

UGent Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Statistics
Krijgslaan 281, S9, B-9000 Gent
Inflammation Research Center, a VIB-UGent Department
Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 71 , B-9052 Zwijnaarde , Belgium

Tel : +32(0)9 331 37 40 Fax : +32(0)9 221 76 73
Mailto: yvan.saeys@ugent.be   http://www.dambi.ugent.be
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