CREAF

The Centre for Research on Ecology and Forestry Applications (CREAF) and the Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG) aim to jointly create a Research Program in Conservation Genomics. Conservation genomics is the application of genomic analysis to the preservation of the viability of populations and the biodiversity of living organisms. Powerful advances in genome sequencing technology, informatics, automation, and artificial intelligence, have propelled a new beginning in understanding, utilizing, and conserving biodiversity. Genomic methods can be used to argue species identity, degree of  hybridization, genetic diversity, demographic history, and effective population size. Genomic technologies can be employed to revert the decline of species and populations, to fight invasive species, and to restore balance in ecosystems by integrating genomic knowledge into conservation planning policies and management, and decision making. The CREAF is a leading institute in research on conservation and management of the environment and the territory, in addition to adaptation to environmental change at local, regional, and global scales. The CRG is a leading research institute in Genomics and its translation to Biomedicine and other areas in Biology. It has very strong bioinformatics and systems biology research, as well as state-of-the-art genomic facilities. We aim to recruit a Junior Group Leader in Conservation Genomics, which could be appealed by CREAF’s strength in conservation biology and CRG’s strength in genomics and bioinformatics. The group leader will be jointly affiliated to the CRG and the CREAF. Areas within Conservation Genomics that would be of special interest include all research topics that could directly contribute to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Strategic Goal C, to improve the status of biodiversity by safeguarding ecosystems, species and genetic diversity, with special emphasis, but not exclusively, on Target 13: By 2020, the genetic diversity of cultivated plants and farmed and domesticated animals and of wild relatives, including other socio-economically as well as culturally valuable species, is maintained, and strategies have been developed and implemented for minimizing genetic erosion and safeguarding their genetic diversity. Genomic technologies and bioinformatics methods for monitoring biodiversity, stop biodiversity loss, and restoring ecosystems.

The offer could be particularly appealing to young researchers initiating their independent scientific career, who will be immersed in the highly stimulating environment provided by the complementary expertise of two leading research centers in conservation biology and genomics, and with a strong potential for translational impact.

Junior Group Leader position with a 5-year contract renewable for a total of 9 years depending on external peer-review, and structural funding to cover salaries and consumables for up to three people depending on their qualifications. We offer an equipped laboratory, or office space, for 7-9 people with access to cutting-edge core facilities. For this position, we will employ the ICREA mechanism. Candidates should apply to the ICREA senior call , and seek the support of both the CRG and CREAF to the application.

Please contact roderic.guigo@crg.eu if you have questions about the position, and to get CREAF-CRG support, when applying to the ICREA position and also send your CV to this address. The joint position is conditional to the ICREA position. We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcome applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity. The CRG-CREAF is committed to reconciling the work and family life of its employees and is offering extended vacation periods and the possibility to benefit from flexible working hours. The CRG-CREAF values innovative and interdisciplinary research and is involved in attaining the sustainability principles of the United Nations.