PhD Position in Bioinformatics at the Department of Molecular Medicine (IMM), SDU

The Institute of Molecular Medicine (IMM) at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is offering a PhD position in Bioinformatics within the laboratory of Dr. Sanjeeb Kumar Sahu (https://www.sdu.dk/en/forskning/genome-biology/medarbejdere), Assistant Professor in Translational Biomedicine. IMM is dedicated to advancing our understanding of human biology and disease mechanisms, with a focus on neurobiology, cancer biology, and translational research.

Research Focus:
Dr. Sahu's lab investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying aging, with particular emphasis on cellular senescence and the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP). Their research explores how SASP contributes to aging-related diseases and aims to develop therapeutic strategies to mitigate its harmful effects while preserving its beneficial functions. The lab also works on cellular rejuvenation through partial reprogramming techniques to reverse age-related decline in health, focusing on improving lifespan and organ function in aging models.

Key recent publications from Dr. Sahu’s previous work include:

• Targeted partial reprogramming of age-associated cell states improves markers of health in mouse models of aging. Science Translational Medicine, Sep 2024.
• Intervention with metabolites emulating endogenous cell transitions accelerates muscle regeneration in young & aged mice. Cell Report Medicine, Aug 2023.
• A complex epigenome-splicing crosstalk governs epithelial to mesenchymal transition in metastasis and brain development. Nature Cell Biology. Aug 2022.
• In vivo partial reprogramming alters age-associated molecular changes during physiological aging in mice. Nature Aging. Mar 2022.
• In vivo partial cellular reprogramming enhances liver plasticity and regeneration. Cell Rep. Apr 2022.
  FBXO32 is an upstream regulator of epigenetic and transcriptional reprograming underlying EMT. Nature Communication. Aug 2017.
• Dynamics and function of distal regulatory elements during neurogenesis and neuroplasticity. Genome Res. Sep 2015.
• JNK-dependent gene regulatory circuitry governs mesenchymal fate. EMBO Journal. Aug 2015.

PhD Project:
The PhD candidate will develop and apply advanced computational strategies to analyze and integrate large-scale aging and disease datasets, including proprietary in-house data. Using state-of-the-art tools such as single-cell RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, spatial gene expression, and whole-genome sequencing, the candidate will investigate gene regulatory mechanisms that underlie aging and contribute to age-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s, cancer, and fibrosis. The research aims to identify key genetic and epigenetic factors that drive disease progression and aging processes at the cellular and tissue levels. Additionally, there may be opportunities to engage in wet-lab experiments, including single-cell sequencing and other experimental techniques, to directly validate computational findings and explore new biological insights.

Responsibilities:

• Integrate aging and disease datasets with genome-wide screening platforms.
• Analyze bulk, single-cell, and multi-omics data.
• Lead projects on gene regulatory mechanisms related to aging.
• Maintain detailed research records.
• Receive training in data science and bioinformatics research.

Required Qualifications:

• MSc in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, Bio-engineering, or a related field.
• Proficiency in programming (R and/or Python).
• Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Good communication skill in English
• Interest in multidisciplinary, collaborative research.
• Ability to work in a multicultural team.

We Offer

• High-impact, interdisciplinary research opportunities.
• A stimulating, international work environment.
• Full funding for three years.
• Advanced training and career development support.
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and research facilities.
• Competitive salary and benefits, including health coverage and social security.
• Practical, legal, and social support (housing, visa, tax) through SDU's International Staff Office (ISO).

Application Details:

• Application Deadline: 15th February 2025.
• Start Date: 1st March 2025 (or later).
• To apply, submit:
  o A motivation letter (max 2 pages).
  o A detailed CV (max 3 pages).
  o Master’s degree transcript.
  o Contact information for two referees.
  

Applications must be submitted via the online portal in English by the deadline. Only complete applications will be considered.

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process.

For more information or informal inquiries, contact Dr. Sanjeeb Kumar Sahu at [email protected].

Living and Working in Denmark:
SDU provides Danish language training for international staff and support through the International Staff Office (ISO), which offers assistance with housing, taxation, and other practical matters.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Placering: Odense, Denmark