BACKGROUND

With the generation of large scale datasets detailing the interaction networks of model organisms, there is an increasing need to map these networks within a phylogenetic framework. Our lab is interested in recruiting a creative and industrious post doctoral researcher to help develop specialized data resources and bioinformatics procedures capable of elaborating the interaction networks of human and mouse genes that are involved in key cellular processes. In collaboration with other experts in Toronto (Dr Shoshana Wodak, Dr Andrew Emili, Dr Zhaolei Zhang) and Edinburgh (Dr Mike Tyers), our project focuses on analysing interactions within the chromatin remodeling machinery to gain insights into how complex diseases such as cancer arise from the combined effects of mutations in multiple genes. Funded over five years (in the first instance), our approach will leverage the rich information on protein networks that have been generated by members of our team and their collaborators (e.g. Krogan et al., 2006).

The Parkinson Lab is part of the Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute (HSC-RI). The HSC-RI is one of the largest private research institutes in Canada with an annual research budget of $140 million and employing 235 Principal Investigators, 315 Research Fellows and 453 Graduate Students. Situated in the recently constructed MaRS Discovery Tower, we enjoy close ties with the University of Toronto and the other research hospitals within Toronto.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful candidate will be part of a team developing a comprehensive resource that facilitates the mapping of both physical (e.g. TAP-TAG and Y2H) and genetic (e.g. SGA and EMAP) interaction data derived from model organisms (e.g. yeast, worm, fly and mouse) across the various branches of eukaryotic life. They will be responsible for exploiting whole genome and our in house database of partial genomes, to develop more reliable methods to infer homologous relationships that allow us to build repertoires of genes with related functions across eukaryotes. In addition to exploring the evolution of biological networks, the fellow will help create an integrative software platform that facilitates the the visualization and analysis of complex biological networks.

REQUIREMENTS

Applicants should have recently obtained (last 3 years) their Ph.D in Bioinformatics/Computational Biology, and have related interests in applying evolutionary methods to study biological systems. Due to the need to develop novel algorithms and build on existing software platforms, applicants should be well versed in programming (Perl, Java and/or C++) and database development (e.g. SQL).

Successful candidates need to be highly motivated and be able to integrate well within a team environment. Candidates will also be expected to have good quantitative and written skills.

LOCALE

Toronto

COMPENSATION

Commensurate with experience

HOW TO APPLY

Please send a cover letter, resume and contact details for 3 referees to:
jparkin[at]sickkids.ca

DEADLINE

Open until Filled