We are seeking a highly motivated computational biologist to join the research group of Peer Bork within the Molecular Systems Biology Unit as a postdoctoral fellow. This bioinformatics group works on a wide range of topics with a current focus on microbiome analysis in diverse ecosystems. Our team consists of researchers with varied backgrounds, including bioinformatics, metagenomic sequence analysis, and marine ecology. If you are studying the microbiome via environmental modelling, soil ecology, biogeochemistry, ecophysiology, systems biology, or related approaches, please apply Within the TREC (Traversing European Coastlines) project, we have gathered more than 3000 soil, sediment and water samples, and are currently analysing the resulting microbiome and multi-omics data. Additional data have been gathered within the EU-funded BIOcean5D project, where we are analysing global biodiversity patterns, and in our efforts to integrate public metagenomic data (e.g. in the SPIRE database ) and the corresponding contextual data. Your role You will analyze data collected from the TREC expedition and integrate it with existing large-scale microbiome datasets from soil, sediments, and the ocean (e.g., metagenomes, metatranscriptomes, metabolomes). Different project areas are available, for example, (i) analysis of TREC samples to answer evolutionary, functional and ecological questions, such as the impact of the environment and human influence on biodiversity patterns, (ii) integration of multi-omics data for functional interpretations, (iii) quantification of fluxes of genes and molecular functions between habitats across the globe. The work aims at biological discoveries and will comprise both methodological and applied aspects. A unique aspect is the availability of very large datasets of microbiome data, which make it feasible to explore the use of novel machine learning and artificial intelligence methods. In addition, we are tapping into additional data sources, such as global climate and ocean biogeochemistry databases or satellite data. You have A PhD degree in Biology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, or a related field Proven biological background knowledge and bioinformatics skills to analyse large-scale environmental datasets ( Expertise in one of the following areas (or related topics): environmental modelling, soil ecology, biogeochemistry, ecophysiology, systems biology Experience in data integration, statistical analysis and visualisation, e.g. in Python or R Ability to work both independently and in a team Willingness to learn new skills as projects require Good communication, interpersonal and English language skills You might also have Familiarity with processing next-generation sequencing data and performing sequence analysis An understanding of microbial ecology in an environmental context Experimental expertise in microbiology or collecting environmental samples Experience in working with the Linux command line and compute clusters Professional development support The EMBL Fellows’ Career Service provides support and guidance to predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows across all six EMBL’s sites. Working with a dedicated Careers Advisor, this invaluable service will help you to take informed decisions about your career planning both in the short and longer term. Whether your main interest is pursuing a career path in academia, exploring opportunities in industry or exploring an independent venture, the EMBL Fellows’ Career Service with provide you with a portfolio of activities and resources to help you. To find out more please visit - EMBL-fellows-career-service Why join us Join a culture of innovation We are located on the Wellcome Genome Campus, alongside other prominent research and biotech organisations, and surrounded by beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside. This is a highly collaborative and inclusive community where our employees enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. We are committed to ensuring our employees feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their professional potential. Enjoy lots of employee benefits: Financial incentives: Monthly family and child allowances, generous stipend reviewed yearly, pension scheme, death benefit and unemployment insurances Flexible working arrangements including hybrid working patterns Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year in addition to public holidays Campus life: Free shuttle bus to and from work (Heidelberg), on-site library, subsidised on-site gym and cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely) Family benefits: Kindergarten (Heidelberg), 10 days of child sick leave, paid maternity & parental leave, holiday clubs on campus and monthly family and child allowances Wha t else you need to know International applicants: We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Read more on our page for international applicants. Diversity and inclusion: At EMBL, we strongly believe that inclusive and diverse teams benefit from higher levels of innovation and creative thought. We encourage applications from women, LGBTQ & individuals from all nationalities. Job location: All our fellowships are based on-site (for at least part of each week). If you are living overseas, you will receive a generous relocation package to support you. EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here How to apply: To apply please submit a cover letter and a CV through our online system. We aim to provide a response within two weeks after the closing date. Closing Date 31/03/2025