Research Associate in Data Science and Computational Modelling (Fixed Term)

Key Skills

Data science techniques, Effective communication skills

Job Description

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 24 months in the first instance.

This is an exciting new opportunity for a highly motivated researcher to join Dr. Guy Jacobs working on the ERC-funded project MOBILE: Movement networks and genetic evolution among tropical hunter-gatherers of island Southeast Asia.

The successful candidate will join a team studying the relationship between lifestyle activities, social networks and community genomics among settled and mobile hunter-gatherer communities in Indonesia. The project combines rich spatial and behavioural datasets with extensive genetic sequencing to directly question how lifestyle changes and behavioural decisions impact genetic diversity and health. Further information can be found at www.mobile-project.info

The role holder will take the lead in the analysis of spatial and behavioural data, with options to contribute to human genomic or microbiome analyses. Core analyses will involve building models of human mobility using GPS and actigraphy data, characterising village social networks, and statistical analysis of quantitative survey data. Behavioural results will be complemented by genetic analyses designed to detect social interactions such as microbial strain sharing. There is flexibility for researchers to enrich core analyses with their own interests and skills.

The post holder must have a PhD (or have submitted their doctoral thesis, awaiting their viva). The post is interdisciplinary and a background in a range of fields could be appropriate (e.g. quantitative sciences such as computer science, data science, applied mathematics or statistics; or biological sciences such as computational biology, bioinformatics or biological anthropology). Key requirements are strong coding skills and experience working with large datasets. Experience in GIS, social network analysis, agent-based modelling, population genetics or microbiome analysis would be welcome, though it is recognised that this represents a wide range of skills and the background of individual applicants will vary. An interest in human diversity and evolution is important.

The post holder is expected to have research experience from their PhD studies or post-PhD work, with sufficient specialist knowledge to contribute strongly to and enrich the research programme. They will be able to complete tasks in accordance with a realistic timetable, take initiative in developing research approaches, and contribute to the publication of results in scientific journals in a timely manner.

The closing date for applications is 31 May 2023. Starting date: August 2023 (flexible). Interviews with shortlisted candidates will be carried out by video call in June.

We particularly welcome applications from women and/or candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our department.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Applications are a two-stage process involving an initial application followed by interview (see further particulars by following the link below for details). Please do not apply without consulting the further particulars as these give you essential information about the procedure and the documents you need to submit.

Informal inquiries are welcome and should be addressed to Dr. Guy Jacobs (email: gsj22@cam.ac.uk).

Please quote reference JC36094 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The Department holds an Athena SWAN bronze award for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.