POSTDOCTORAL COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGIST
(NKI-AVL and the VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
COMPUTATIONAL MODELING OF SIGNALING AND REGULATORY PATHWAYS IN Th17
DIFFERENTIATION
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.
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.
EMPLOYER INFORMATION
The Netherlands Cancer Institute is a dedicated
cancer center conducting research in all major areas of cancer, with a strong
emphasis on translational research. The Bioinformatics and Statistics group
provides leadership on the collection and analysis of data for the research
programs of the institute, by developing novel compuational approaches and
performing state of the art analyses of a wide array of data types, including
laboratory and animal experiments, clinical trials, and epidemiologic
studies.
The Centre for Integrative Bioinformatics (IBIVU) is a broad-based research
centre at the VU University that is carried by the Faculty of Sciences (FEW) and
the Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences (FALW) with strong endorsement from the
University Board. Its main missions are carrying out a strong and
internationally competitive research program in Integrative Bioinformatics with
an additional focus on Systems Biology, and providing an excellent educational
program at bachelor and master level; the latter including two-year
international master’s programmes in Bioinformatics and in Systems Biology.
REQUIREMENTS
The vacancy is a research position within the field of
bioinformatics/computational biology and the research will be carried out in
close collaboration with the involved partners. The ideal candidate has a
background in bioinformatics, computer science, statistics, physics, or biology,
strong algorithmic and/or machine learning skills, and experience with the
analysis of high-throughput data.
EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS
The temporary employment will be for a period
of three years. The gross monthly salary for a Postdoc will range from € 3140,-
to € 3.495,- and depends on previous experience. We can help you find housing.
The NKI-AVL has been listed in the top 25 of ‘Best Employers’ in 2009 offering a
specialized cancer research institute and hospital with good working conditions
and an excellent atmosphere.
INTERESTED?
To apply, and for further information please contact Lodewyk
Wessels, tel.: +31-20-5127987, e-mail:
l.wessels@nki.nl or Jaap
Heringa, tel.:
heringa@few.vu.nl
+31 20 59 87649 (direct) or +31 20 59 87483 (secr.)
CLOSING DATE
1 July 2010