How to Apply
To be considered for this position, please submit the following materials:
- Cover Letter: Attach a cover letter as the first page of your resume/CV. In your cover letter, please address your specific interest in this position and outline the skills and experiences that directly relate to the role.
- Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include an up-to-date resume or CV detailing your educational background, research experience, and any relevant publications.
- References: Provide contact information for three professional references who can speak to your qualifications and research abilities.
Please ensure that all documents are compiled into a single PDF file for submission.
Job Summary
The University of Michigan's COMPASS Study (Comprehensive Mobile Precision Approach for Scalable Solutions in Mental Health Treatment) invites applications for a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow to join our interdisciplinary research team. Under the supervision of Dr. Lars Fritsche in the Department of Biostatistics, the successful candidate will analyze genomic data to support an extensive, collaborative network of researchers aiming to develop predictive models and advance polygenic pharmacogenetics research to improve mental health treatment outcomes.
Supported by a U01 grant from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the COMPASS Study seeks to transform mental health care by integrating mobile technology, genomic, behavioral, and electronic health record data. By enrolling thousands of patient volunteers, the study aims to create decision aids that predict the most effective treatment approaches for individuals, thereby personalizing mental health care similar to advancements in cancer, heart disease, and diabetes treatment. The goal is to help providers choose the right treatment, reducing recovery time and improving mental health outcomes.
As part of our team, you will have access to extensive resources, including large-scale genomic datasets, advanced computational infrastructure, and interdisciplinary expertise.
This position offers exceptional opportunities for professional growth:
- Mentorship and Collaboration: Work closely with renowned experts across multiple disciplines in a supportive and collaborative research environment.
- Innovative Research: Engage in pioneering work integrating genomics, technology, and clinical data to advance personalized mental health treatment.
- Professional Development: Benefit from opportunities to publish in high-impact journals, present at conferences, and develop leadership skills.
For more information, please contact Dr. Lars Fritsche (Email: [email protected]).
Responsibilities*
Genomic Data Analysis and Management
- Manage, curate, clean, extract, and analyze genotyping array data.
- Focus on pharmacogenetics (PGx) star allele and variant calling.
Pipeline Development and Management
- Develop and run pipelines to run GWAS, generate polygenic risk scores (PRS), and estimate pharmacogenetic phenotypes.
Collaborative Research
- Integrate data from published GWAS meta-analysis consortia and large biobanks like the University of Michigan Precision Health Cohorts, UK Biobank, and NIH All of Us Research Program.
EHR Data Integration
- Process and integrate electronic health record data with genomic data.
Data Dissemination and Coordination
- Coordinate with the IMPACT-MH Data Coordinating Center on data harmonization and sharing.
Research Dissemination
- Participate in research meetings, present findings, and contribute to scientific publications.
Continuous Learning
- Conduct literature reviews to stay updated on genetic data analysis, PRS, pharmacogenetics, and mental health genomics research.
- Areas of continued learning include AI and Machine Learning techniques, causal inference, tailoring digital interventions, and patient engagement in research.
Required Qualifications*
- Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Genetics, Computational Biology, Epidemiology, or a related field.
- Experience in genomic data analysis, including GWAS, PRS, pharmacogenetics, and high-throughput omics data.
- Proficiency in R and Python, with experience in Linux and high-performance computing clusters.
- Strong statistical analysis skills.
- Excellent oral and scientific writing communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and make informed decisions.
Desired Qualifications*
- Experience in mental health research and integration of genomic and clinical data.
- Familiarity with data visualization tools and techniques.
- Experience in collaborative research environments and team science.
Work Locations
This position requires the successful candidate to work on-site at the University of Michigan's Ann Arbor campus. While we cannot offer remote work arrangements from outside the United States, we provide a dynamic and flexible work environment with opportunities for occasional remote work within the U.S. We welcome applicants eligible to work in the United States and are open to discussing visa sponsorship for exceptional international candidates.
Additional Information
Ann Arbor is a progressive city of about 118,000 year-round residents, and approximately 43,000 students, with excellent schools and a wide variety of sporting and musical activities. It is rated very highly in national surveys for its quality of life and has the amenities of a city many times its size. In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family, and plan for a secure future.
The University of Michigan is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for all community members. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who will contribute to this mission.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO/AA Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.