Assistant Professor Biological Psychology/ Behavior/ Molecular Genetics

at  Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

JOUW FUNCTIE

The research and education programme at the department of Biological Psychology revolves around the genetic and biological basis of individual differences in behaviour, and mental and physical health. We study the genetic and biological basis of individual differences using approaches from behaviour/molecular genetics and genetic epidemiology. We seek a new colleague who contributes to building and extending the department’s reputation for excellence in research and teaching in these areas.
We have a vacancy for an assistant professor who will be supported in building her/his research line in the field of twin family-based and multi-omics studies. We seek a colleague who wants to contribute to innovative omics data management, participate as analyst in international consortium (gene finding) efforts on behalf of the NTR, who is keen to teach substantive and methodological courses in genetic epidemiology at bachelor and master level, and who is open, in the longer run, to develop an own research theme in this field by writing papers and grants. The position provides the opportunity to work with the unique large longitudinal database of the Netherlands Twin Register and to contribute to the vibrant collaborative and international research network of the department.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• A PhD on a topic from behaviour genetics, molecular genetics, (bio)statistics, genetic epidemiology or a closely related area
• Knowledge of statistical methods (SEM) and statistical programming (R or Python)
• Experience with or interest in behaviour genetics and genetic epidemiology
• Experience in working with large datasets
• Excellent English writing and speaking skills
• Strong research potential, preferably evidenced by publications or grants
• Interest in/experience with supervision of PhD students
• Excellent in teaching at Bachelor and Master level.
• Having obtained or willingness to obtain the University Teaching Qualification (Dutch: BKO).
• Experience in the field of health behaviours, stress & resilience, and/or child and adolescent psychology is welcomed.
  As a university, we strive for equal opportunities for all, recognising that diversity takes many forms. We believe that diversity in all its complexity is invaluable for the quality of our teaching, research and service. We are always looking for talent with diverse backgrounds and experiences. This also means that we are committed to creating an inclusive community so that we can use diversity as an asset.

• Participate on behalf of NTR in international gene-finding consortia
• Data management of the genotype database of the Netherlands Twin Register, including maintenance and innovation of quality control, imputation, and polygenetic risk score pipelines
• Create a stimulating learning environment for students at all levels (BSc, MSc, MPhil), and continuing to improve teaching quality;
• Perform innovative research and publishing in international high-quality journals;
• Contribute to the acquisition of additional research funds, both individually and as a team effort.
• Engage in societal impact activities (e.g., public outreach, translation of genetic knowledge to health care).
• Supervising bachelor, master, and PhD students.