About us
IMB (www.imb.de) is a research institute on the campus of the Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany. It is generously funded by the Boehringer Ingelheim Foundation and the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. Our research focuses on the biology of the cell nucleus and ranges from the molecular level to systems and computational approaches. Researchers at IMB are supported by strong core facilities that offer state-of-the-art services in bioinformatics, cytometry, genomics, microscopy, proteomics, and protein production.
Background
Human brain development is spatially and temporally tightly controlled, with sequential and precise orchestration of cellular and molecular programs. Any perturbation in these molecular programs can lead to detrimental effects. For example, mutations in genes encoding epigenetic regulators, especially the BAF chromatin remodeling complexes, are frequently causative for neurodevelopmental disorders. These manifest in brain abnormalities, intellectual disabilities, and other physical aberrations. We still hardly understand the molecular mechanisms during human brain development mediated by these regulators and how their mutations manifest into the disease phenotypes.
BAF chromatin remodeler complexes are large multi-subunit complexes that can slide or eject nucleosomes and thereby regulate chromatin accessibility and gene expression. Recently, we have shown that the maintenance of chromatin accessibility requires constant BAF complex activity and that perturbation of their function during brain development can result in severe molecular, cellular and phenotypic alterations.
BAF chromatin remodeler complexes are large multi-subunit complexes that can slide or eject nucleosomes and thereby regulate chromatin accessibility and gene expression. Recently, we have shown that the maintenance of chromatin accessibility requires constant BAF complex activity and that perturbation of their function during brain development can result in severe molecular, cellular and phenotypic alterations.
The position
Deciphering the role of BAF complexes in human brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders
As part of the chromatin regulation group, you will work on a project addressing the cellular and molecular role of BAF chromatin remodelling complexes in human brain development and related diseases. For this project, the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) into brain organoids in combination with genetic and pharmacological perturbations is used as a model system in combination with advanced cell and molecular biology techniques, including bulk and single-cell genomics, proteomics, and microscopy. The project will include the analysis of the datasets, data integration and statistical analyses. Additionally, you will use machine learning and artificial intelligence to make additional predictions from data by training available machine learning algorithms or deep learning models. The project is funded by the European Union (ERC Starting Grant).
Tasks and responsibilities
- Computational analysis of transcriptomics and epigenomic datasets, e.g. bulk and single cell (epi)genomics and proteomics data, and
- Multi-model data integration
- Feature selection and prediction using machine and deep learning models
- Data analysis, documentation and presentation
- Regularly participate and present at (internal) meetings
- Study of relevant scientific literature
Requirements
- Highly motivated and creative researcher who enjoys computational analysis, data integration, and machine learning
- Experience in genomic and epigenomic data analysis and integration is required
- Extensive experience in R/python, shell script and reproducible research
- Strong statistical knowledge and knowledge of statistical modelling of multi-model datasets
- Knowledge of HPC or cloud-based systems
- Experience in machine learning will be highly beneficial
- Ability to work closely with wet-lab scientists
- Enthusiasm about science, especially with regard to neurodevelopmental processes, gene regulation, and epigenetics
- Ability to work precisely and good attention to detail
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team
- Very good oral and written communication skills in English
Why join us?
We offer a stimulating, diverse and international research environment, with a pleasant working atmosphere and the opportunity to perform state-of-the-art experiments and analyses. The institute is modern, well-equipped and centrally located with good public transport links and parking.
Our offer
- Competitive salary and favourable pension scheme
- Advanced training opportunities
- Flexible working hours
- Job Ticket
- Employee events
- Being part of the ERC Starting Grant “SWItchFate”
- Co-supervision by local and international experts in the field
What else you need to know
Starting Date: January 2025 or laterDuration: 2 years with option of extension
Deadline: 30th November 2024
Have we sparked your interest?
To apply, please upload your application containing your cover letter, CV, certificates and contact information of at least two professional references. Should you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact us by email hr(at)imb-mainz.de, quoting Ref. No. #SSPD02. Informal enquires should be addressed to Dr. Sandra Schick-Nickolaus. IMB is an equal opportunity employer.