The Asgari Lab is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship position in human genomics with a specific interest in human genomics of infection and immunity. This position will be jointly held between the Institute for Genomic Health (IGH) and the Department of Genetics and Genomics Sciences (GGS) at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in Manhattan, New York, NY, USA. These entities have a vested interest in using advanced data science methodologies to push forward precision medicine.
Our research lies at the intersection of statistical, functional, and population genomics with a strong focus on infection biology and immunology. Key topics of interest include but are not limited to: predictive modeling for disease outcomes and personalized therapeutic recommendations, combining human genetics with electronic health records for better disease risk prediction, and methods development for combining human genomics, population genetics, and functional genomics data for better understanding of infectious disease biology, among others.
Dr. Asgari will supervise the successful candidate. We are open to co-mentorship with other labs at IGH and GGS. The candidate will have the opportunity to work with unparalleled data and computational resources.
Data resources include:
- Access to >8 million patient records in the Mount Sinai Data Warehouse;
- The BioMe Biobank Program with > 60,000 patients with whole exome sequencing or genotyping data linked to longitudinal clinical data;
- Mount Sinai’s COVID-19 biobank with genetic, HER, plasma, and blood collected from 600 COVID-19 patients and controls;
- Access to genotype or summary statistics and HER for hundreds of thousands of individuals through our international collaboration with the Global Biobank Meta-analysis Initiative, COVID-19 Human Genetic Effort, and COVID-19 Host Genetic Initiative;
- Access to large-scale functional genomics data through our collaboration with TOPMed, Human Cell Atlas Project, and Human Immunology Project.
Ongoing projects are listed on our website; however, the applicant will have the opportunity to develop their own research projects and to lead or participate in local as well as international collaborations. As a mentor, I actively encourage the professional development of my lab members and facilitate the presentation of exciting findings at pioneering conferences.
Our lab is located at Mount Sinai Hospital’s main campus right beside Central Park. The postdoctoral fellow will join the dynamic environment of the IGH and has the opportunity to work and interact with data scientists, geneticists, and clinicians and participate in unique opportunities to leverage and combine large-scale genomics and functional genomics data for important scientific breakthroughs.
Qualifications
The ideal candidates will have the following background:
- PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in a quantitative science-related field (e.g., biomedical informatics, clinical informatics, machine learning, biostatistics, genetics, etc.)
- Expertise with programming and statistical software experience in R and/or Python.
- Experience working with human genomics and/or functional genomics data.
- Excellent publication track record.
- Strong communication and presentation skills with fluency in spoken and written English.
- Familiarity with population genetics concepts is not required but is a plus.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit a CV and a brief cover letter to samira.asgari@mssm.edu
Information on the Postdoctoral Training Program at Mount Sinai
http://icahn.mssm.edu/education/postdoctoral-training. To learn more about the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai: http://icahn.mssm.edu.Incoming postdoctoral fellows are eligible for affordable Mount Sinai Housing within walking distance of the medical school and of a wide range of amenities as well as visa sponsorship on a case-by-case basis.
Our values
We are committed to attracting and training scientists from diverse backgrounds who are excited about helping us expand the current understanding of infectious disease biology and immunology through human genomics. We seek individuals who share our values of collegiality, rigor, and having fun doing science. We work hard to acquire and retain the best people and to create a welcoming, nurturing work environment where you can develop professionally. We share the belief that all employees, regardless of job title or expertise, can make an impact on quality patient care. As a mentor, my mission is to teach you what I know and to learn from you what you are in the process, to listen to you, and to help you set and reach your career goals.
Why our research matters
Infectious diseases are one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. While many old infections like tuberculosis and HIV still claim millions of lives every year globally. New and emerging infections are also becoming a growing threat due to population growth, urbanization of animal habitats, global warming, and rapid population movement. There is thus a pressing need for a better understanding of infectious disease biology and for the development of innovative diagnoses, preventive, and therapeutic measures to combat ongoing and future outbreaks.
About Our Organization
The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai is internationally recognized as a leader in groundbreaking clinical and basic science research and is known for its innovative approach to medical education. With a faculty of more than 3,400 in 38 clinical and basic science departments and centers, Mount Sinai ranks among the top 20 medical schools in receipt of National Institutes of Health grants. In its 2015 “America’s Best Graduate Schools” issue, U.S. News & World Report ranks the Icahn School of Medicine 14th out of 130 medical schools nationwide. Mount Sinai Medical Center is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We recognize the power and importance of a diverse employee population and strongly encourage applicants with various experiences and backgrounds. Mount Sinai Medical Center–An EEO/AA-D/V Employer.