Research Assistant in Complex Trait Genomics

Institute for Molecular Bioscience / Queensland Brain Institute Program in Complex Trait Genomics

The Program in Complex Trait Genomics (website: http://cnsgenomics.com) is a joint initiative between the Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) and the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) . Physically located in IMB, the broad research focus is towards a better understanding of complex traits and disorders, including psychiatric and neurological disorders. A key research strength is the development of underpinning computational and statistical analysis methods. The Program is led by an Executive comprising Prof Peter Visscher, Prof Naomi Wray and Prof Jian Yang who were awarded a five-year Program Grant by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council, commencing in 2017. In addition, Peter Visscher was awarded a five-year Australian Research Council Laureate Fellowship in 2018 to enhance capacity in human complex trait genetics and genomics.

Visscher, Wray and Yang and their colleagues are internationally recognised for pioneering the use of multi-marker statistical methods in human genetics and for innovative methods in the analysis of genetic and genomic data of complex traits. Their research is regularly published in top journals such as Nature, Science, Nature Genetics, Nature Communications, Genome Research, American Journal of Human Genetics, PLoS Genetics and Molecular Psychiatry.

Research in the Program covers four major themes: Statistical Genomics, Systems Genomics, Psychiatric Genomics and Motor Neuron Disease Genomics. The Program consists of over 20 postdoctoral research staff as well as PhD students, research assistants and visiting academics. Current research involves; the development of novel statistical genetics methodology and software; analysis of genotype, expression and methylation array data alongside DNA and RNA sequencing data; application of statistical genetic methods to infer the genetic control of traits and diseases.

The role

The appointee(s) will be required to support researchers on a wide range of research projects. The nature of the research in the Program is analysis of large-scale genome-wide data sets (millions of genetic markers on up to half a million people) of DNA variants, DNA methylation or gene expression data. The applications of the research in the Program are to understand and interpret the nature of variation of complex genetic traits (e.g. height as a model trait) and diseases (e.g., psychiatric disorders, neurological disorders). The appointee with conduct analyses of large-scale data sets under supervision of a postdoctoral researcher.

The person

The successful candidate(s) will have (at a minimum) an honours degree in statistical genetics, quantitative genetics, bioinformatics, computer programming, statistics or other relevant areas. In addition, computing skills, including scripting language and programming are required.

Salary and Benefits

This is a full-time, fixed term appointment for 2 years (with the possibility of extension until end of 2021) at HEW Level 6. The remuneration package will be in the range $77,400 - $83,267 p.a., plus employer superannuation contributions of up to 17% (total package will be in the range $90,558 - $97,422 p.a.).

Employees can take advantage of UQ's Sport Facilities , salary sacrificing options, on-campus childcare, discounted private health insurance, cheap parking, and many other benefits.

This position is located at our picturesque St Lucia campus , renowned as one of Australia's most attractive university campuses, and located just 7km from Brisbane's city centre. Bounded by the Brisbane River on three sides, and with outstanding public transport connections, our 114-hectare site provides a perfect work environment - you can enjoy the best of both worlds: a vibrant campus with the tradition of an established university.

Here at UQ we value diversity and inclusion, and we actively encourage applications from those who bring diversity to the University. Our Diversity and Inclusion webpage contains further information and points of contact if you require additional support. Accessibility requirements and/or adjustments can be directed to recruitment@uq.edu.au .

Enquiries

To discuss this role please contact Rebecca Richter on r.richter@uq.edu.au

To submit an application for this role, use the Apply button below. All applicants must supply the following documents:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Responses to the Selection Criteria

For information on completing the application process click here .