PhD: Single-cell transcriptomics and epigenetics in Atlantic cod

Apply here

About the position

A three-year PhD fellowship on the project EPICOD – Novel insights into the epigenetic landscape of puberty onset in Atlantic cod - is available at the Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture, Nord University (Bodø, Norway).

Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture (FBA)

The FBA is responsible for research, teaching and dissemination of knowledge within biosciences and aquaculture. In recent years, FBA has undergone a major development both in terms of faculty and infrastructure, and has an exceptionally international academic environment.

The FBA aims to be a leading international arena in the High North for education, research and knowledge dissemination in aquaculture and marine ecology, fostered by a unique genomic platform and characterized by strong interaction between the disciplines. It possesses state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and operates a modern Research Station about 10 minutes from campus. The Faculty seeks to strengthen the relations between students, the research community, public sector and the industry. For more information visit the Faculty’s website.

 

About the position

FBA invites applications from outstanding candidates for a three-year PhD fellowship within the project EPICOD - Novel insights into the epigenetic landscape of puberty onset in Atlantic cod, which is funded by the Research Council of Norway (Norges Forskningsråd – NFR). EPICOD is an international initiative of highly-reputable institutions such as Nofima (Tromsø), Havforskningsinstituttet (IMR, Bergen), Institut de Ciències del Mar (CSIC, Barcelona), and The Roslin Institute (University of Edinburgh, Scotland). The main supervisor of this PhD thesis, professor Jorge Fernandes, is affiliated with the Genomics Division at the FBA (Nord University, Bodø).

The overall aim of this PhD thesis is to identify transcriptional and epigenetic changes, at both single-cell and tissue-specific level, that are responsible for the early onset of puberty in farmed Atlantic cod. The candidate is expected to take part in activities that include tissue sampling and laboratory work such as RNA and DNA extractions, single nuclei isolations, library preparations, and next-generation sequencing. As part of the PhD study program, the candidate is expected to complete the necessary coursework, write and publish their findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals as well as travel and disseminate their work in well-renowned conferences across the world.

 

Project summary

Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) is a prime species with proven economic potential. Its successful domestication is a strategic resource of food security, however, several aspects of its biology are still unknown including the early onset of puberty under farmed conditions. The onset of puberty in large-scale production (sea cages) is controlled to some extent by light-manipulation. However, this practice is limited with major consequences both on the environment (genetic contamination) and the product quality (reduced growth, fillet quality deterioration and mortalities). Because puberty is largely affected by external stimuli, we hypothesize that epigenetic mechanisms are largely responsible for the control of this mechanism. EPICOD will address this challenge by investigating fundamental biological aspects (transcriptome and epigenome) of the early onset of puberty at single-cell level. Our results have the potential to unveil novel biomarkers for the selection of broodstock with delayed onset of puberty.


Qualification requirements

At the time of taking up the appointment, the candidate should have completed an MSc degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, namely epigenetics, genomics and bioinformatics.

This challenging project requires a highly motivated, creative and ambitious applicant with an excellent academic record and the ability to collaborate with other members of a multidisciplinary team.

Documented experience in bioinformatics is an essential requirement for this position. Hands-on experience in single-cell sequencing and epigenetic analysis is advantageous.

Proficiency in oral and written English is essential and must be documented either by the Norwegian Higher Education Entrance Qualification or internationally recognised certificates, such as TOEFL, IELTS, APIEL or similar.

The successful candidate will join the PhD programme in Biosciences at Nord University and is expected to complete a doctorate within the three-year project period. The candidate should fulfill the admission requirements of this PhD programme at the Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture and participate in the training components stipulated in regulations of the PhD program. Application for admission to the programme must be submitted within three months after taking up the position. For admission requirements and regulations, see our web page.


Qualified applicants will be ranked according to the following criteria:

  • Themes and perspectives from the applicant's master's degree will be given weight in the assessment of candidates. Project sketch with description of project idea and plan for implementation.
  • Personal suitability and motivation for the position.
  • The applicant's description of motivation for doctoral work and opportunities for implementation.
  • Relevant experience from research work will count positively.

We offer

The annual salary for doctoral researchers (code 1017) is set at wage level 54, NOK 532 200,- in the Norwegian State Salary Scale.

  • Advantages within the Government Pension Fund for borrowing, insurance and pension
  • Creative and collegial working environment 
  • A workplace with steady progressive development 
  • Flexible working hours 
  • Active university sports team 

General information

The person who is appointed must abide by the applicable laws, agreements, and directives. The responsibilities and duties associated with the position may change with future reorganization at Nord University.

The public sector workforce is expected to reflect the diversity of the population in general. Nord University therefore encourages qualified candidates with disabilities, gaps in their CV, immigrant backgrounds or different life experience to apply. 

If applicants indicate they have disabilities or gaps in their CV, their details may be used anonymously for the purposes of governmental annual review.


Contact information

For further information about the position, please contact:

Professor Jorge Fernandes (e-mail: [email protected] telephone: +47 75 51 77 36) or Dr. Ioannis Konstantinidis (e-mail: [email protected]; telephone: +47 75 51 73 79).

Questions related to the application process should be addressed to Head of Office Irene Stork (e-mail: [email protected]; telephone +47 75 51 74 42).


Application process

Applicants will be evaluated by an internal expert committee. Relevant applicants will be invited for an interview, trial lecture or other presentations.

The Faculty reserve the right not to hire applicants who may be scientifically qualified but who do not meet other criteria such as language, educational background or personal characteristics


Application

Applications must be submitted electronically by 18.09.2023

The application should include:

  • Motivation letter outlining the candidate’s suitability for this position, relevant experience and how they will contribute to the successful implementation of EPICOD (maximum 1 page)
  • A research proposal of a potential research project (maximum 2 pages)
  • Curriculum vitae, including a list of publications (maximum 3 pages)
  • Certified copies of academic degree transcripts and any other relevant qualifications
  • Contact details for at least two referees

All documents must be uploaded as attachments to the electronic application form.

It is the applicant's responsibility to submit the complete documentation within the deadline.

After the application period has expired a list of applicants will be published. Note that, in special cases, the identity of particular applicants to a position may be made public even when that applicant has requested that their application be processed confidentially. Applicants requesting an exemption from publication of their identity must explain their reasons for doing so in their application. In this case, advance notice will be given in the event of a decision to make any information about the applicant public.

Refnr. 30078574