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Postdoctoral Fellow on genomic prediction for novel traits in animal breeding: Aarhus, Denmark

Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics (QGG), at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, is seeking for a Postdoctoral Fellow to conduct research in the area of genomic prediction for novel traits. The position is available from July 1st for a period of 2 years.

Project
Genomic selection has been successfully implemented in practical animal breeding. The key factor affecting accuracy of genomic prediction is the size of reference population. Therefore, insufficient phenotypic information is a challenge for accurate genomic prediction of novel traits (such like feed efficiency and methane emission). One strategy to improve genomic prediction of novel traits is to efficiently use information on proxy traits which are easy to measure and genetically correlated traits which are currently available in routine genetic evaluation. In this postdoc project, the successful candidate will develop and validate sophisticated statistical methods and models for genomic prediction of novel traits by integrating information of the novel traits, proxy traits and other genetically correlated traits. The postdoc will work extensively with likelihood and Bayesian methods and the project will include programming, simulation studies and analysis of field data for validation of the new methods and models.

Qualifications and competences
• PhD degree with a background in quantitative genetics, animal breeding, or statistics.
• Good knowledge of likelihood and Bayesian statistical methods. 
• Experience of research in genomic prediction and analysis of large data sets. 
• Good skills in communicating scientific findings in English.
• Ability to work in scientific networks and collaborate with industry partners.
• Experience in computational programing is desirable.

Place of work
The Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics (QGG) at Aarhus University (http://mbg.au.dk/en/research/research-areas/centre-for-quantitative-genetics-and-genomics) is a major center for research and education in quantitative genetics, quantitative genomics, and breeding. It comprises 20 senior staff and a large group of PhDs and Post Docs. The center is part of the Department for Molecular Biology and Genetics and is located at the AU Foulum campus (for the locations of the department see http://mbg.au.dk/en/contact/how-to-find-the-department/).

Further information
For further information, contact: Professor Mogens S. Lund (mogens.lund@mbg.au.dk) Formalities and salary range 
Science and Technology refers to the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Danish Universities under the Danish Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (http://www.au.dk/fileadmin/www.au.dk/Regelsamlingen/Bekendtgoerelse_nr__242_af_a3__MARTS_2012_-ENGELSK_UDGAVE.pdf). 
The application must be in English and include a curriculum vitae, degree certificate, a complete list of publications, a statement of future research plans and information about research activities, teaching portfolio and verified information on previous teaching experience (if any). Guidelines for applicants can be found here (http://scitech.au.dk/en/about-science-and-technology/vacant-positions/application-form-guide/). 
Appointment shall be in accordance with the collective labour agreement between the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Further information on qualification requirements and job content may be found in the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff at Danish Universities (http://www.au.dk/fileadmin/www.au.dk/Regelsamlingen/2014/Job_Structure_for_Academic_Staff_at_Universities_201328-04-2014.pdf). 
Salary depends on seniority as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Finance and the Confederation of Professional Associations.

Deadline

All applications must be made online and received by:

01.06.2015

Aarhus University offers an inspiring education and research environment for 44,500 students and 11,500 members of staff, ensuring results of a high international standard. The budgeted turnover for 2015 amounts to DKK 6.2 billion. The university's strategy and development contract are available at www.au.dk/en.…

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Employer:Aarhus University

Website:http://www.au.dk/en/

Location:Aarhus, Denmark

Expires:June 01, 2015

Job type:Postdoctoral

Salary:Unspecified

Qualifications:Postgraduate - Doctorate/PhD

Employment type:Contract

Job hours:Full-time