PhD bioinformatics | department of Hematology

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a devastating disease with dismal five-year overall survival rates. Despite the introduction of novel treatments, therapy resistance remains a major problem in achieving cures for patients with AML. This PhD project aims to unravel how cellular heterogeneity and non-genetic adaptation drive therapy resistance in AML by leveraging cutting-edge single-cell multi-omics technologies in combination with a novel genotyping strategy developed in our group.

We are looking for a PhD student who is able to analyze single-cell multi-omics datasets (RNA+ATAC or RNA+ protein) from AML samples. In addition, we generate single-cell long-read sequencing data to genotype individual cells. The ideal candidate enjoys exploring complex datasets in depth, developing new analytical strategies, and working both collaboratively and independently. A strong sense of scientific curiosity and a willingness to learn and apply new computational methods are essential. 

As a PhD student, the following responsibilities are part of your role:

• analysis of single-cell RNA-seq datasets from AML samples;
• analysis of single-cell long-read datasets;
• integration of single-cell multi-omics datasets (RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, proteomics, etc);
• collaboration with experimental biologists to interpret results;
• presentation of the project and results at national and international scientific meetings;
• writing scientific papers.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, skilled, highly motivated and ambitious PhD student who can work independently as well as in a team and is creative in seeking solutions to scientific questions demonstrating capability for independent thinking. You have:

• a MSc degree in bioinformatics, computational biology or a related study;
• experience with single-cell RNA-seq analysis (Seurat, Scanpy, or similar tools);
• experience with high-performance computing (HPC);
• strong programming skills in R and/or Python.

Moreover, you have a curious, problem-solving mindset and an interest in new methods. Since you will be working in an international environment you are expected to have excellent command of written and spoken English and be able to communicate scientific ideas effectively.