Vacancy Details Research Fellow Vacancy Ref: : 032712 Closing Date : 13-May-2015 Contact Person : Tom Michoel Contact Number : 0131 651 9209 Contact Email : Tom.Michoel@roslin.ed.ac.uk<mailto:Tom.Michoel@roslin.ed.ac.uk?subject=Research%20Fellow> We are seeking a highly motivated Research Fellow to work on a project funded by the Tools and Resources Development Fund of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council. The project is a collaboration between the research groups of Dr Tom Michoel (Systems Genomics, http://lab.michoel.info) and Dr Albert Tenesa (Statistical Genetics, http://www.roslin.ed.ac.uk/albert-tenesa) at the Roslin Institute and focuses on the development of novel computational methods for reconstructing causal gene networks from large-scale omics data to understand how the genotype determines the phenotype. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to work in a highly interdisciplinary and stimulating environment with access to unique datasets of genotype, RNA-sequencing and phenotype information across hundreds of individuals. The ideal candidate will have a PhD degree (or equivalent experience) in a computational science (e.g. informatics, statistics, bioinformatics, statistical genetics, engineering, applied mathematics, physics) with expertise in developing algorithms for analysing large-scale omics data. For any queries regarding the post, please contact Dr Tom Michoel – Tom.Michoel@roslin.ed.ac.uk. 1. Job Details Job title: Research Fellow School/Support Department: The Roslin Institute Unit: Division of Genetics and Genomics Line manager: Tom Michoel 2. Job Purpose To carry out research into the development of new computational methodologies for reverse-engineering causal gene networks from large-scale omics data. 3. Main Responsibilities (Approx. % of time) • Conduct and collaborate on research to develop new methodologies for reverse-engineering causal gene networks from large-scale omics data. This will involve the independent design of appropriate statistical and computational strategies, comparison and validation against existing methods and established reference datasets, and implementation into user-friendly software packages, following discussion with the Principal Investigators (Dr Tom Michoel and Dr Albert Tenesa). 70% • Maintain accurate and up to date records to document progress. 10% • Contribute to dissemination and publication of research findings including presentation of research findings at national and international level and the writing of manuscripts. 15% • The post holder will be expected to regularly report on progress to the PIs. 5% 4. Planning and Organising The post holder will plan and manage an agreed programme of research including the day to day experiments required to develop, validate and implement diverse computational methodologies. The post holder will also be expected to arrange regular meetings with other scientists to ensure efficient and effective collaboration. 5. Problem Solving The post holder is expected to resolve most problems using accumulated experience with only the most serious non-standard issues reporting to the line manager for assistance. 6. Decision Making Taken independently: Organise own workload according to priority and adapt as necessary and setting of short-term time-lines. The post holder will normally be expected to make operational and research decisions autonomously but clear limits will be defined for decisions to be referred to the PIs. Research methodology and major operational issues will be managed in conjunction with the PIs. In collaboration with others: Problem solving and data interpretation, methodological design and discussion of short-term research aims and potential new research strategies. Referred to line manager: Overall timelines, changes of direction, response to serious complex data (although input to these areas is expected). Level of direction given: Line manager will offer general orientation and advice, in addition to support in developing and implementation of research strategy, there will be an appropriate degree of independence. 7. Key Contacts/Relationships The post holder will be responsible to the PI, his research group and the Roslin Institute. 8. Knowledge, Skills and Experience Needed for the Job Essential • PhD (or near completion) in computational science (informatics, statistics, bioinformatics, statistical genetics, engineering, applied mathematics, physics) , or equivalent experience. • Demonstrated track record in developing algorithms and software for analysing large-scale omics data. • Experience in managing, processing and analysing large-scale omics data, including gene expression arrays, genotyping arrays and high-throughput sequencing data. • Experience in working in a high-performance computing environment, including cluster computing, parallelisation and in-depth knowledge of statistical software (R, Matlab) and at least one other programming language. • Ability to apply relevant knowledge and skills to develop and establish techniques in research. • Ability to communicate complex concepts effectively both orally and in writing. • Experience in presenting data at international meetings and preparing manuscripts Desirable • Experience in reverse-engineering gene regulatory networks from large-scale omics data. • Experience in statistical genetics, e.g. expression quantitative trait loci mapping or related techniques • Experience of working within an interdisciplinary research environment. 9. Dimensions The project is a collaboration between the research groups of Dr Tom Michoel (Systems Genomics) and Dr Albert Tenesa (Statistical Genetics) in the Division of Genetics and Genomics at the Roslin Institute. 10. Job Context and any other relevant information The position will mainly be based at the Roslin Institute. Some attendance at national and international meetings will be required. Salary The role is grade UE07 and attracts an annual salary of £31,342 to £37,394 for 35 hours each week. Salary is paid monthly by direct transfer to your Bank or Building Society account, normally on the 28th of the month. Salaries for part-time staff are calculated on the full-time scales, pro-rata to the Standard Working Week. This post is available on a fixed term basis, with a working pattern of 35 hours per week for 18 months. Pension Scheme This role is grade UE08 and therefore the post holder is automatically included in membership of the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), subject to the USS membership criteria, unless they indicate that they choose not to join the Scheme. For further information please visit our pensions website http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/finance/pensions/scheme-details/uss Eligibility to Work In accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006 the University of Edinburgh, as an employer, has a legal responsibility to prevent illegal working and therefore must check that all employees are entitled to work in the United Kingdom (UK). To do so, the University of Edinburgh requires to see original documents evidencing right to work in the UK before commencement of employment and this is normally carried out at interview. Details will be provided in any letter of invitation to interview. For further information on eligibility to work please visit our eligibility to work website<http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/human-resources/recruitment/eligibility-immigration> If you are not currently eligible to work in the UK, it may be possible for the University of Edinburgh to sponsor you to obtain a Tier 2 (General) visa to enable you to take up the appointment should you be successful at interview. For applicants interested in sponsorship information is available on our Working in the UK website<http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/human-resources/recruitment/eligibility-immigration/employees-guidance/working-in-uk> However, if you have previously been sponsored by an employer within the UK but your leave has expired or lapsed and you are no longer in the UK, according to Home Office Visa Immigration rules you cannot apply for sponsorship under any category of Tier 2 for a period of 12 months after the date your visa expired and/or you left the UK. If you are an academic in the field of sciences; humanities; engineering; medicine; digital technology; or the arts and come from outside the EEA, it may be possible for you to apply for a Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa. The Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa route offers a greater flexibility in your employment compared to other UK immigration routes, meaning you can, for example, move organisation, location and/or job role. By contrast with, a Tier 2 visa where you are ‘tied to a UK sponsor’. Tier 1 provides greater flexibility in undertaking additional engagements, such as collaborations and is intended as a route to settlement. Allowed absences from the UK are up to 180 days per year without losing the eligibility to qualify for settlement, with no restriction on the reason for absence (unlike Tier 2, where any absences from the UK must be for a purpose consistent with the person’s employment or economic activity, including paid annual leave, or for serious or compelling personal reasons). You would initially need to apply to be endorsed as an internationally recognised leader or emerging leader in your particular field by a designated competent body (Arts Council England, British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering, Royal Society, Tech City UK). Tier1 (Exceptional and Exceptional Promise) Endorsement Criteria<https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/302695/20140410_Immigration_Rules_-_Appendix_L_MASTER.pdf> Once successfully endorsed, you are able to apply for a Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa. More information on this entry route is available at UKVI Website<https://www.gov.uk/tier-1-exceptional-talent>. Application Procedure All applicants should apply online by clicking the “apply” button at the foot of this page. The application process is quick and easy to follow, and you will receive email confirmation of safe receipt of your application. The online system allows you to submit a CV and other attachments. Closing date: Wednesday 13th May 2015 at 5pm. Interview date You will be notified by email whether you have been shortlisted for interview or not. The University reserves the right to vary the candidate information or make no appointment at all. Neither in part, nor in whole does this information form part of any contract between the University and any individual. The Roslin Institute (http://www.roslin.ed.ac.uk<http://www.roslin.ed.ac.uk/>) The internationally-renowned Roslin Institute is incorporated and co-located with Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies on the Easter Bush campus. The University of Edinburgh and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) together funded a new £60 million state of the art building for The Roslin Institute, occupied in March 2011. The Roslin Institute's mission is to gain a fundamental understanding of genetic, cellular, organ and systems bioscience underpinning common mechanisms of animal development and pathology, and to drive this into prevention and treatment of important veterinary diseases and develop sustainable farm animal production systems. The Roslin Institute holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of their commitment to advancing the representation of women in science, mathematics, engineering and technology. The Roslin Institute is strategically supported by the BBSRC; funded by Institute Strategic Programme Grants and National Capability Grants. The Institute aims to enhance the lives of animals and humans through world-class research in animal biology. The principal objectives are to: • Enhance animal health and welfare through knowledge of genetic factors affecting resistance to disease. • Enhance sustainability and productivity of livestock systems and food supply chains through understanding of reproductive and developmental biology. • Enhance food safety by understanding interactions between disease causing organisms and animals. • Enhance human health through an understanding of basic mechanisms of health and disease and comparative biology of animal species. • Identification of new and emerging zoonoses and understand how pathogens might cross from animals to humans. • Enhance quality of life for animals by studying the mechanisms and behaviours associated with optimising their environment and life experiences. The Roslin Institute provides holistic solutions to global challenges in human and veterinary medicine, the livestock industry and food security. The results of the Institute's research are important in many ways. The Roslin Institute aims to improve animal health and welfare with a view to benefiting the environment, developing countries, farmers and the public. Their research goals are to conserve genetic diversity, control animal diseases, develop new diagnostics and therapeutics for animals and humans and improve food quality and safety. The increase in global demand for livestock products as the world's population increases and becomes more affluent means new methods of production that ensure long-term sustainability must be developed. The research of The Roslin Institute involves work in animals, in cells and tissues, and in computer modelling and simulations. Research is conducted at the highest standards of animal care and welfare. The Roslin Institute has a large number of collaborations within Edinburgh; both with the University and with other local research organisations and our scientists collaborate widely on the international stage. Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014 The Roslin Institute, along with the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Scotland's Rural College, were part of a joint submission to the 2014 Research Excellence Framework. This submission to Unit of Assessment 6 (Agriculture, Veterinary and Food Science) was ranked as number 1 in the UK. The joint submission was the largest to UoA6, with over three quarters of the research outputs submitted judged to be "world leading" or "internationally excellent". Over 80% of the submitted impact studies were scored highly, in addition to which the research environment was scored as 100% at 4*. The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies (R(D)SVS) (www.vet.ed.ac.uk<http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/vet>) The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, headed by Professor David Argyle, has an international reputation for its research, teaching and clinical services. It occupies a new £45 million veterinary teaching building, next to the existing prestigious small and large animal hospitals at the Easter Bush Campus, completed in 2011, and designed to support top class veterinary education in the 21st century. The hospital includes a major new veterinary oncology and imaging centre. The School is consistently highly ranked by The Times Higher and the Guardian newspaper. The School is accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and participates in the Veterinary Medical Colleges Admissions Service (VMCAS). The School, along with The Roslin Institute and Scotland's Rural College, were part of a joint submission to the 2014 Research Excellence Framework. This submission to Unit of Assessment 6 (Agriculture, Veterinary and Food Science) was ranked as number 1 in the UK. The joint submission was the largest to UoA6, with over three quarters of the research outputs submitted judged to be "world leading" or "internationally excellent". Over 80% of the submitted impact studies were scored highly, in addition to which the research environment was scored as 100% at 4*. The REF results saw the School maintain it's position as the number 1 ranked vet school for research in the UK. The School is a global education provider and has nearly 1000 undergraduate, postgraduate and research students from a number of different countries. We provide world-class education to improve the health of animals and human beings alike and are leaders in veterinary education, research, and clinical practice, at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies holds a Bronze Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance the representation of women in science, mathematics, engineering and technology. In April 2008 the Easter Bush Research Consortium (EBRC) was formed which brings together the science of The Roslin Institute, the R(D)SVS, Scotland's Rural College and the Moredun Research Institute. The partnerships within the EBRC, and integration with clinical practice and education in the R(D)SVS, provide major opportunities for application and exploitation of the research of the consortium partners. Together, the EBRC forms one of the largest groups focussed on the biology of companion and production animals in the world. It undertakes basic and translational science to tackle pressing issues in animal genetics and genomics, development, health and welfare and their implications for human health The College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine The College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine<http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/medicine-vet-medicine> traces its origins back nearly 500 years (Darwin, Simpson and Conan-Doyle were students here) and is internationally renowned for its research and teaching. Headed by Professor Sir John Savill, the only conjoint Medical and Veterinary Medical School in the UK employs over 2300 academic and support staff within the College and the four Schools; Biomedical Sciences ; Molecular, Genetic and Population Health Sciences; Clinical Sciences and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/medicine-vet-medicine/about/medical-... http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/medicine-vet-medicine/about/medical-... http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/medicine-vet-medicine/about/medical-... http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/medicine-vet-medicine/about/medical-... The undergraduate medicine teaching programme in the College enjoys a high reputation nationally and internationally, with over 1,300 students enrolled on the MBChB and Intercalated courses and nearly 1000 on the Veterinary Sciences BVS and related programmes. In addition, approximately 2000 students are currently enrolled in the College’s taught and research post-graduate courses, including an extensive range of online distance learning diplomas and degrees. They are trained by over 1000 outstanding academic staff. Details of PhDs, research programmes and studentships are available through our interdisciplinary research institutes and centres (http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/medicine-vet-medicine/research/insti...). The academic disciplines within Medicine are largely concentrated in the two teaching hospital campuses, the Royal Infirmary at Little France and the Western General Hospital. Both have extensive new infrastructure with major research institutes and state of the art research facilities on clinical sites. Edinburgh hosts a number of prestigious MRC and BHF Research Centres. The approach is interdisciplinary, with basic and clinical researchers working together at the laboratory bench and in our clinical research facilities to address major themes in basic, clinical and translational medicine. The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Science on the Easter Bush campus houses outstanding teaching and clinical facilities as well as the splendid Roslin Institute, one of the world’s leading veterinary research centres. The College offers outstanding opportunities to address ‘One Health’ and Global Health problems of the highest international priority. Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014 The College’s reputation as one of the world’s leading centres of medical and veterinary medical research has been reaffirmed by its UK REF2014 results. Medicine, the University’s largest submission, was ranked in the top 5 in the UK. Veterinary Medicine came 1st in the UK, and retained its position as the UK’s top Vet School. It made a joint submission with Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC). Neuroscience was ranked 3rd in the UK out of 82 submissions, representing a major advance. Overall, 84% of the College’s research activity was rated world leading or internationally excellent (3* and 4*). In terms of ‘one medicine’ research (human and animal medicine), the University of Edinburgh’s research power (quality x volume) is the strongest in the UK. The University of Edinburgh For more than four centuries, our people and their achievements have rewritten history time and again. They’ve explored space, revolutionised surgery, published era-defining books, paved the way for life-saving medical breakthroughs and introduced to the world many inventions, discoveries and ideas from penicillin to Dolly the sheep. We have believed that anything is possible. We still do. The latest Research Excellence Framework highlighted our place at the forefront of international research. This adds to our international reputation for the quality of our teaching and our student experience excellence. As a member of staff you will be part of one of the world's leading universities, with 22 Schools spread over 3 Colleges that offer more than 500 undergraduate and 160 postgraduate courses to over 35,000 students each year. Professional services are critical to this success as well as our world-class teaching, research and student facilities. In fact, we are one of the top employers in Edinburgh, with over 12,000 people spread across a wide range of academic and supporting roles. The University is proud of its success with online teaching initiatives, with 1905 students currently studying its online distance learning postgraduate programmes, and a total to date of 1 million enrolments for Edinburgh MOOCs. As a world-changing, world-leading university we are an exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work. We give you support, nurture your talent, develop and reward success and integrate academic, professional and p?ersonal career goals, as well as give your career the benefit of a great and distinguished reputation. The University of Edinburgh holds a Bronze Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advance the representation of women in science, mathematics, engineering and technology. We are also Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions actively promoting LGBT equality. The University has a range of initiatives to support a family friendly working environment. See our University Initiatives website<http://www.ed.ac.uk/schools-departments/equality-diversity/help-advice/family-friendly> The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336.