Highly motivated candidates are invited to apply for a 2-year postdoctoral position (with the possibility of an extension) in the laboratory of Assoc. Professor David Gomez-Cabrero in the Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE) Division at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) (https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/study/faculty/david-gomez-cabrero). The project investigates the composition of the bone marrow niche in health and the changes associated with disease using a multi-omic strategy. We are generating a comprehensive collection of bulk (RNA+ATAC-seq), single-cell (RNA+ATAC-seq), and spatial transcriptomics (RNA-seq) profiles of hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic progenitor cells in the bone marrow. We aim to characterize all cell types (see: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2022.104225), their 3D organization in the bone marrow, and the cell-to-cell interactions that define cell differentiation. Furthermore, we are investigating – through the same technologies - the changes occurring in Multiple Myeloma and Myelodysplasia.

What is expected:

• Bioinformatic analysis (depending on the experience of the candidate): (i) support in the implementation and/or development of state-of-the-art bioinformatics pipelines; (ii) single-cell analysis, multi-omic analysis; (iii) spatial transcriptomics bioinformatic analysis.
• Learning and implementing Systems Medicine-based analysis.
• Collaboration with clinicians and biologists.
• Active participation in the development of the projects (e.g. design, conceptual development, etc)
• Collaborate with the development of any bioinformatic development required to accomplish project goals.

• Participate in the oral presentation of all project findings and abstracts, including participation in periodic project status meetings and presentation of final project deliverables
• Travel will be required occasionally for the project (working meetings, dissemination, and/or educational purposes)

The successful candidate will join a vibrant multi-skilled community of bioinformaticians, computer scientists, biotechnologists, biologists, and biochemists.

The successful candidate will also enjoy an environment aimed to facilitate progress in the research career: networking, student supervision, and project management. We will consider tasks and responsibilities based on seniority and experience.

The BESE Division at KAUST offers a unique combination of an intellectually stimulating environment and access to world-class laboratories, instrumentation, and generous funding schemes. KAUST facilities also include state-of-the-art core laboratories in Genomics, Proteomics, Imaging & Characterization, Extreme Computing, and Informatics.

About you
The postdoc researcher will be expected to take a leading role in developing and carrying out the research program. The project will require strong skills in bioinformatic data analysis, pipeline implementation (and possibly development), and programming. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in bioinformatics, computer science, biotechnology, biology, or a related discipline. Experience in NGS analysis (RNA-seq/ATAC-seq; bulk/single-cell) and spatial profiling will be positively evaluated. A high level of proficiency in English and excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential requirements for this position.

Additional information
KAUST is an international, graduate research university dedicated to advancing science and technology through interdisciplinary research, education, and innovation. KAUST attracts top international faculty, scientists, engineers, and students to conduct curiosity-driven and goal-oriented research to address the world’s most pressing scientific and technological challenges. Located in Saudi Arabia, on the eastern shores of the Red Sea, KAUST provides an award-winning campus to live, work, study and play, and offers superb research facilities, with guaranteed baseline research funding, infrastructure support, entrepreneurship opportunities, and internationally competitive salaries. For more information about KAUST, please visit http://www.kaust.edu.sa. More information about the BESE Division and the Bioscience Program is available at http://bese.kaust.edu.sa.

Informal inquiries are welcomed and should be made to David.gomezcabrero@kaust.edu.sa

Other information:
The starting date is flexible.

Required qualifications

• Most important one: motivation.
• A Ph.D. and experience in a relevant discipline area including bioinformatics, computer science, biotechnology, biology, and computational biology.
• Programming skills: R and/or Python
• Creative and self-motivated personality with an interest in fundamental and applied science to address grand challenges in agriculture.
• Excellent problem-solving skills combined with good interpersonal skills for international teamwork.
• Excellent communication skills in English
• High-level written and oral communication skills with the ability to represent the research team at national and international conferences.
• A record of publications in quality, peer-reviewed journals

Additional skills to be considered

• Experience in Open Source tool usage and development.
• Experience using relational databases, SQL, and/or structured data formats.
• Multi-omic analysis.
• Design, implementation, and documentation of R packages.
• Server management.

How to apply
Apply and provide the required documentation (i.e., CV, cover letter, publication list, contact details of 2 references)