Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our academic community.

Dr. Paula Ramos is seeking a highly-motivated postdoctoral fellow to join our multidisciplinary and growing team of researchers seeking to understand the mechanisms by which genetic and social factors influence autoimmune outcomes, particularly in lupus and scleroderma in health disparity populations. Our research team brings together expertise in molecular, statistical, and population genetics, genetic epidemiology, social epigenomics, data science, clinical disease and community-engaged research. We have a focus on ethical, inclusive, and responsible research, as well as community outreach and engagement. Our ultimate goal is to improve autoimmune disease outcomes in health disparity populations by identifying genetic and non-genetic, modifiable risk factors that can inform therapeutic, behavioral, and policy interventions.

We are looking for a postdoctoral fellow to spearhead projects that will apply cutting-edge computational and statistical approaches for analyzing the combined effects of multi-omic and social exposures on disease outcomes in health disparity populations. Given our multidisciplinary research, this position offers opportunities to include clinical, molecular, and immunology research projects. Individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

The lab is located in the Whitehead Biomedical Research Building at Emory School of Medicine, which offers an outstanding training environment for postdoctoral scientists.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Develop data analysis pipelines for omic (e.g., genomic, transcriptomic), phenotypic, and environmental data to uncover disease risk factors.
• Stay updated on the latest statistical modeling and computing tools.
• Lead projects that result in first-author publications; contribute to collaborative studies.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication.
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary collaborators to plan, design, and execute data analyses.
• Attend and present at lab meetings, journal clubs, departmental seminars, and national and international conferences.
• Contribute to the mentoring of students and junior scientists in the lab.
• Maintain code and pipelines, and support team operations as needed.
• Work with the PI to develop a career development plan and participate in career advancement opportunities.

Mentoring & Professional Development

The team has a strong emphasis on mentorship. Dr. Ramos will work closely with the successful candidate to develop and implement a mentorship plan tailor-made for their goals and interests. In addition to abundant career development opportunities at Emory University, Dr. Ramos will provide mentorship for fellowship applications, manuscript writing, presentations, and career independence. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D.) in human genetics, statistical genetics, bioinformatics, computational biology, population genetics, genetic epidemiology, or similar field. Applicants with a wet lab background who are highly motivated to receive training in statistical and computational biology are also welcomed. The salary will be according to NIH guidelines as within the Emory Office of Postdoctoral Education (OPE), and commensurate with experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• The ability to work effectively and collegially with a multidisciplinary team of colleagues.
• Experience with programming languages (e.g. Python and R).
• Experience with large-scale omic analyses, high performance computing, and cloud computing.
• Solid foundation in statistical quantitative data analysis.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills.
• High standards of thoroughness in record-keeping and completing work tasks.
• Drive, initiative, and eagerness to learn.
• Experience in, or strong understanding of, human genetics, health disparities, or autoimmune disease research.

Applicants are encouraged to submit the following to Dr. Paula Ramos at paula.sofia.ramos@emory.edu: (1) a cover letter summarizing their experiences, research interests, and career goals; why they are interested in pursuing a postdoc in our group; and when they are available to start; and (2) a CV, including contact details of three references.

Emory University is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, genetic information, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and veteran's status. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment on the basis of any factor stated above or prohibited under applicable law. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in University programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Executive Order 11246, as amended, Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action. Emory University is committed to achieving a diverse workforce through application of its affirmative action, equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policy in all aspects of employment including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Inclusion, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322.

Emory University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at 404-727-9877 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). Please note that one week advance notice is preferred.