Researcher in Molecular Animal Genetics

Identification of Genes with a Negative Effect on Equine Health and Welfare: A framework based on whole-genomesequencing and bioinformatics for horses

Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics
The department is based at Ultuna Campus, Uppsala, and has around 60 employees. Our vision is "Better use of genetic resources". We conduct research in bioinformatics, molecular, quantitative and applied genetics across a range of livestock species as well as sports and companion animals. We also contribute to several education programs at SLU and provide parentage control, genetic testing and genetic evaluation for domestic animals. More information at https://www.slu.se/en/departments/animalgenetics/.

Project description:

The overall goal of this project is to improve the horse's health and welfare by identifying the causes of hereditary diseases and to support knowledge-based breeding of healthy horses. We combine whole genome sequencing (WGS) and bioinformatics with clinical description of disease phenotypes to develop a general "pipeline" for the detection of disease-causing mutations in horses. The purpose of the study is to:


• clinically define hereditary diseases in horses;
• develop a "pipeline" to identify disease-causing mutations with bioinformatics and whole genome sequencing;
• develop a plan for breeding counseling based on different scenarios of inheritance patterns and severity of disease.

Duties:
Develop a "pipeline" to identify disease-causing mutations with bioinformatics and whole genome sequencing, and put this in a context for breeding advice depending on different hereditary patterns of congenital diseases in the horse. Some supervision and teaching of students may occur.

Qualifications:
You must hold a PhD in molecular genetics, bioinformatics, or other relevant research area. The position is intended for a junior researcher. Good knowledge and experience of bioinformatic analysis and programming, as well as good knowledge in English (both written and oral) are requirements. Understanding of and interest in animal breeding as well as experience of molecular genetic laboratory work are merits.

We are looking for you who have a great interest in research of molecular genetics as well as veterinary medicine. You must be thorough and structured, and be able to work both independently and in groups. Great emphasis will be placed on personal qualities.

Place of work:
Uppsala

Form of employment:
Temporary employment 18 months.

Extent:
100%

Starting date:
As soon as possible upon agreement, but no later than 28 February 2021.

Application:
Welcome with your application via the application button below no later than 2020-12-16.

Submit a complete CV and a cover letter indicating why you are interested in the position, how you meet the qualification requirements, and why you will become an asset for our department.

Selection among the eligible applicants is based on: written application including CV and list of publications and personal references. Please note that the applicant (s) who are called for an interview must then submit certified copies of diplomas and register extracts from previous studies at undergraduate and advanced level at university or college, and that applicants with foreign citizenship must also submit a certified copy of the page in the passport that contains photos and personal information.

Academic union representatives:
https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/



The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) develops the understanding and sustainable use and management of biological natural resources. The university ranks well internationally within its subject areas. SLU is a research-intensive university that also offers unique degree programmes in for example rural development and natural resource management, environmental economics, animal science and landscape architecture.

SLU has just over 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and a turnover of SEK 3 billion. The university has invested heavily in a modern, attractive environment on its campuses in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala.

www.slu.se

SLU is an equal opportunity employer.