A postdoctoral research position is available in the lab of Dr. Adam de Smith in the Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Population and Public Health Sciences at the University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine. The de Smith lab uses cutting-edge epidemiological tools to investigate the causes of childhood leukemia, the most common cancer in children. In particular, we have a strong interest in using genomic data to understand the increased risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in individuals of self-reported Hispanic/Latino ethnicity, and the increased risk of acute leukemia in children with Down syndrome.

The successful candidate will have opportunities to analyze large-scale germline genotyping data, as well as tumor whole-genome sequencing data from childhood leukemia patients to investigate the etiologic role of early-life environmental exposures and the prenatal origins of childhood leukemia, including for the NIH R01-funded ReCord Study: https://record.umn.edu

The Center for Genetic Epidemiology (https://keck.usc.edu/genetic-epidemiology-center/) is closely linked with the Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Translational Genomics, and Quantitative Computational Biology. The Department of Population and Public Health Sciences is one of the nation’s leading research programs in epidemiology and biostatistics, with particular expertise in genetics research in diverse populations, and offers exceptional resources and collaborative opportunities for postdoctoral fellows. In particular, we work closely with research groups focusing on genetic epidemiology, statistical and functional genomics, and population genetics.

Salary will be competitive. The University of Southern California offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and short and long term disability insurance.

Candidates should have a recent Ph.D. in genetics, genetic epidemiology, biology, or a related field. Proficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g. R, python, perl, C++, etc.) is essential. Some laboratory experience is preferred but not essential. Competitive applicants will also have extensive experience in conducting human genetics research and analyzing large genetic datasets. Preference will be given to candidates with a strong publication record, evidence of substantial research productivity, and an ability to successfully communicate scientific information.

Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. The position is expected to start in Fall or Winter 2021, though specific dates are negotiable.

Interested candidates should submit a CV, a short (1-2 pages) cover letter describing your research interests and fit within the lab, and contact information for 2-3 references. Informal inquiries are welcomed and should be addressed to Dr. Adam de Smith at desmith@usc.edu

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within previous five years Minimum Experience: 0-1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods. Preferred Field of Expertise: Publications in peer-reviewed journals in the same or related field