Researcher, postdoc, computational plant genomics

Job description

A researcher, postdoc, will work in the Business Finland-funded Q-GEN project (Quantum Computing Applications for Future Genomes and Biomaterials).

The rapid development of sequencing methods produces vast and complex omics datasets, the analysis of which challenges traditional computational methods. Quantum computing offers the opportunity to solve bottlenecks related to the analysis of these complex datasets, but so far, quantum computers have been underutilized in the field of bioinformatics.

The researcher will be part of the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) Plant Genetics and Genomics research group. The task is to identify bioinformatics problems to which quantum or hybrid computational methods can be applied, develop new algorithms in collaboration with quantum physics researchers from Aalto University, and apply the developed methods in simulated and real quantum computing environments.

The research focuses primarily on the analysis of omics datasets in plants. Possible application areas include, among others, gene network estimation and modeling of multi-omics datasets.

The researcher's supervisors will be Tuomas Hämälä and Daniel Fischer (Luke), and they will work in close collaboration with Ilkka Tittonen's research group (Aalto University). The position is located at Luke's office in either Jokioinen or Helsinki. The position includes the possibility of research visits to international collaborators.

What we expect from the applicant

• a recently completed doctoral degree (typically no more than 5 years ago) in a relevant field, such as bioinformatics, genetics, machine learning, or data science • experience in analyzing large-scale omics datasets • strong programming skills, preferably in Python • experience with Unix-based high-performance computing (HPC) environments • good communication skills • the ability to work independently as well as part of a multidisciplinary research group • excellent oral and written English skills

Experience with quantum computing platforms, such as IBM Qiskit, as well as machine learning, is considered an advantage. In the evaluation, we will also consider the number and quality of the applicant's scientific publications, especially regarding publications related to bioinformatics, plant genomics, machine learning, and quantum computing. Additionally, proficiency in Finnish is considered an advantage.

What we offer youFor us, the well-being of our staff as well as an innovation- and development-friendly atmosphere at work is particularly important. We work multi-locally and, as far as possible, we encourage you to work in Finland where it suits you best, without forgetting community spirit. We offer flexibility in working hours, long working hour flexibilities, and long holidays as your employment continues. Additionally, we offer a lunch benefit as well as support for exercise, culture, or commuting.Vetting

A basic security clearance (Security Clearance Act 726/2014) may be conducted on the person selected for the position with the applicant's consent. More detailed information on the procedure and the rights of the subject of the clearance can be found at www.supo.fi .

Our contact information

Sirja Viitala Research Manager, available on 15.10 from 9-11 and 15-17, and 16.10 from 9-11 and 15-17 +358 29 532 6636 sirja.viitala@luke.fi

Daniel Fischer Special Researcher +358 29 532 6670 daniel.fischer@luke.fi

Tuomas Hämälä Special Researcher, available on 9.10. from 12-16, 16.10. from 12-16, and 23.10. from 12-16 +358 29 532 2239 tuomas.hamala@luke.fi

We hope for applications primarily electronically via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you can also apply for this position by delivering your application to the registry's postal address. Both in the application and on the envelope, the ID number of the position being applied for must be mentioned. The letter must arrive before the application deadline. Late applications cannot be considered. Applications will not be returned. Candidates for interviews will be selected based on the information appearing in the application documents, education, work experience, and other factors, and eligibility requirements will also be verified regarding the expected education.

Natural Resources Institute Finland registry

Latokartanonkaari 9 00790 Helsinki

Employer

Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research and expertise organization that builds well-being and a sustainable future from renewable natural resources. We produce knowledge-based solution models and services for our customers as well as added value for a sustainable and competitive economy based on renewable natural resources. We also support social decision-making related to natural resources and the natural resource economy.

The field of activity, tasks, and organization of Luke are regulated in the Act on the Natural Resources Institute Finland (561/2014). We operate in the field of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

What unites us "lukelaiset" is friendliness, curiosity, and the desire to positively influence the world. We value our diverse work community, built from different backgrounds and cultures, and promote equality. Together, we build a good-natured and respectful culture where everyone's work is valued. Responsibility runs through all our activities.

Jokioinen, Helsinki

You can work at any of our following locations

Jokioinen Tietotie 4 31600 Jokioinen Open in Google Maps

Helsinki Latokartanonkaari 9 00790 Helsinki Open in Google Maps

Other information about the position

Additional information: A mandatory screening will be conducted on each person selected, based on compliance with international and national sanction obligations. In addition, a background check may be conducted on the selected person to verify the accuracy of the information provided by the person, if the person does not have Finnish citizenship.

Position level: Expert level

Remote work: Full-time or partial remote work

Description of remote work: At Luke, work is done multi-locally, meaning work is done where it is most appropriate. Multi-local work is only possible in Finland, and practices are agreed upon with the supervisor. We also meet each other regularly in person.

Reason for fixed-term: Nature of the work

Additional information on fixed-term: Q-Gen (Quantum Computing Applications for Future Genomes and Biomaterials) project

Working hours: Office working hours

Probationary period: The probationary period is half of the duration of the employment, but at most six (6) months.

Salary information: The position is placed at the complexity level 8 of the Natural Resources Institute Finland's salary system, where the position-specific salary component is 3704.31 euros per month. In addition to the position-specific salary component, a personal performance-based salary component is paid, which can be at most 50% of the position-specific salary component. A new employee's personal salary component is typically 15–20% depending on competence and experience. The applicant may also present their own salary expectation.