The Max Planck Institute (Nijmegen, the Netherlands) is offering a Research Scientist position in Statistical Genomics/Bioinformatics. The host research group, led by Dr Clyde Francks, investigates the genetic basis of human brain lateralization using techniques including RNA sequencing, whole exome and genome sequencing, and genome-wide association scanning. Language depends on left-lateralized neural circuits in the brains of most people, and the host research group is embedded within the Language & Genetics Department of the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen, the Netherlands. http://www.mpi.nl/departments/language-and-genetics
The MPI in Nijmegen is a leading research institute internationally, with a very stimulating environment, excellent facilities and resources. The Language & Genetics Department uses state-of-the-art methods to trace the connections between genes, neuronal and brain functions, and behavior. We benefit from close connections with expert teams in neuroscience and brain imaging at the Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, and in human genetics at the Human Genetics Department of Radboud University.
We are seeking a research scientist who holds, or shortly expects to obtain, a PhD qualification in a field involving the interrogation of genomics-scale datasets, for example bioinformatics or statistical genomics. The successful candidate will have good computer science or programming skills, and knowledge of data-analytical approaches in one (or more) of the following areas:
- Analysis of genome-wide association datasets, for example gene network/pathway approaches, expression QTLs
- Next-generation-sequencing studies such as exome screening or RNA-Seq
- Bioinformatics with genomics (computational and analytic skills suited to large scale, multi-dimensional datasets)
- Integrated analysis of genetic, gene expression, and other functional genomics datasets, such as gene ontology and network analysis
Candidates do not require prior experience in neuroscience, but should be keen to learn and involve themselves in the ongoing research of the department, which is focused on genetics of the neuron, brain, behavior and cognition.
The position is available from November 2015, although later starting dates will be given consideration. The term of appointment is for three years, with a salary according to the German TVöD. The Institute is part of the Max Planck Society (Germany), albeit that it is located in the Netherlands. Scientists in the Netherlands report among the highest job satisfaction ratings of any in the world.  The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer. Applications from women, people with disabilities and under-represented groups are particularly encouraged.
Applications should include:
- A statement of interest in the position
- CV
- List of publications
- Names, email addresses and contact numbers of at least two referees who would be willing to provide letters of recommendation; 
Send applications or enquiries to:
e-mail: martina.bernhard@mpi.nl
mail:
Martina Bernhard (Secretary to Dr S Fisher, Director)
Language & Genetics Dept, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Wundtlaan 1, 6525 XD Nijmegen, The Netherlands
Applications will be considered on an on-going basis until the position is filled.