Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Epigenetics)

The International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) is seeking a qualified and highly-motivated researcher for a two-year appointment to assist the IPHC Secretariat in the development of genome-wide DNA-methylation-based methods for aging Pacific halibut as an alternative to current traditional aging methods. This researcher will work with IPHC Secretariat staff in the Biological and Ecosystem Sciences Branch and in the Quantitative Sciences Branch to develop and validate an epigenetic clock and high-throughput genomic methods for age estimation that will inform the Pacific halibut stock assessment.

The IPHC manages the Pacific halibut resource for the Canadian and USA governments, with offices in Seattle, Washington, USA.

Principal Duties

The researcher will work with the Biological and Ecosystem Science Branch and with the Quantitative Sciences Branch of the IPHC to develop and validate an epigenetic clock for estimating ages from Pacific halibut fin clip tissue samples routinely collected by the IPHC Secretariat for other genomics projects (i.e. sex identification, population dynamics, etc.). Research will be directed by IPHC Secretariat staff and focus on the following topics:

• Develop an age estimation method based on the generation of a high-resolution DNA methylation map for Pacific halibut tissue (fin clips)
• Develop a calibration model comparing age determinations by traditional (i.e. otolith annuli reading) and genome-wide DNA methylation-based methods (e.g. RRBS): development of an epigenetic clock for Pacific halibut
• Develop predictive age models for Pacific halibut
• Develop error estimation methods and conduct sensitivity analyses
• Write scientific reports and assist with and/or author peer-reviewed papers
• Travel to, attend, and present at conferences and meetings
  
  

Qualifications And Experience

Education : Ph.D. in biology, genetics, bioinformatics, or a related field.

Professional experience : A minimum of two years of experience in genomics applied to fisheries and/or marine biology. Specific qualifications to be considered are as follows:

• Experience in genomics techniques and analyses applied to studies on population-level key life history traits
• Knowledge of bioinformatics tools for genome- and epigenome-wide analyses
• Proficiency in R and other relevant programming languages and applications
• Strong quantitative skills, with emphasis on statistics and predictive models
• Demonstrated ability to lead a project and excellent research management skills.
• Proficiency in writing scientific reports and papers
• Experience communicating complex concepts, models, and results through discussion and oral presentation
  
  

Salary And Benefits

The annual salary for this position is equivalent to a IPHC-GS-11 level, which carries a salary in the range of $74,180.12 to $89,015.09 (2022 rates). depending on experience and demonstrated skills. The IPHC offers a generous benefits scheme including 100% employer-paid medical insurance for the staff member and all immediate family members, life, cancer care, and long-term disability insurance, as well as five weeks paid vacation, 13 days sick leave annually, and a 403(b) program with employer contribution and match. The IPHC is committed to providing its employees with a work environment that is free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, incivility, and retaliation.

Application

Applications are due by 1 August 2022 and may submitted through the IPHC website at nd cite Job Reference Number 2022-031

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