Applications are invited for a position in the ongoing PREBRAIN project “Pregnancy-related and placental biomarkers of long term neurodevelopment” led by Professor Trond Michelsen and Researcher Ane C. Westerberg. The position is funded by Stiftelsen Dam, and the candidate will be a part of the Maternal-fetal Interaction Research group at Oslo University Hospital. The project is performed in collaboration with LCBC- Center for Lifespan Changes in Brain and Cognition at the University of Oslo.

The project aims to explore placental and pregnancy related determinants of long-term neurodevelopment assessed by neurocognitive tests and MRI at age 6-10 years. Participants are children whose mothers were included in the “the placenta 4-vessel project”. Using a special sampling method during cesaeren section, we collected blood samples on both the maternal and fetal side of the placenta. These samples allows estimation of substances being released and taken up by the placenta. Thus, we have unique samples and extensive data collected from these pregnancies, including measurements of 5000 proteins, approximately 400 lipids and metabolites, glucose, hormones and amino acids. A subgroup of pregnancies were complicated with preeclampsia, a condition closely linked to placental dysfunction. Thus, we also aim to assess the effects of placental dysfunction and preeclampsia on neurodevelopmental outcomes at 6-10 years.

Most data have already been collected through clinical visits and MRI scans. Thus, the project holds large data sets, both omics and MRI. These data may potentially unravel novel and comprehensive insights into links between early life exposures and child outcomes. Thus, this project may contribute with important mechanistic knowledge to the so-called “DOHAD hypothesis”. Insights into determinants during pregnancy of offspring long term development will have important clinical implications for surveillance and potential treatment targets.

About the research group
The Maternal-fetal Interaction Research Group, led by Professor Trond Michelsen, is located at Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital. The group particularly focuses on the interplay between maternal and fetal physiology in normal and pathologic pregnancies. Four professors, one associate professor, one researcher and one medical student are currently affiliated with the ongoing project. We have strong national and international multidisciplinary collaborators, and parts of the fellowship may be spent abroad.

Main tasks for the positions
Candidates will participate in preparation of datasets, design and implementation of data analyses, as well as writing of manuscripts and communication of research findings. We provide an exciting and progressive environment to learn novel methodologies in a collaborative fashion, nationally and internationally. The candidates will work closely with other group members including Faculty, Post-doctoral fellows and PhD students. Ability to work in a team is essential.
Our research area partly operates in previously unexplored fields that require definition of new concepts and analytical approaches. To achieve this, creative combinations of physiological knowledge, analytical insight and advanced statistics is required.

To be considered, please complete the online application including a detailed cover letter, CV and three professional reference.

Oslo University Hospital is a workplace with great diversity. We believe this is essential to perform the tasks required of us. Therefore, we pursue diversity among our job applicants and encourage everyone to apply regardless of who you are and what background you have.

Kvalifikasjoner:

• A PhD with training in fields of obstetrics, psychology, physiology, reproduction, biostatistics or physics (MRI) is preferred. 
• Experience from bioinformatics/strong quantitative skills (i.e. biostatistics/omics data/MRI data). Fluency in R or equivalent software is preferred.
• Experience in pregnancy/placenta/child health or neurodevelopment are preferred.
• Candidates must also have excellent interpersonal and communication skills. 
• Personal suitability will be emphasized.

Personlige egenskaper:

To be considered, please complete the online application including a detailed cover letter, CV and three professional references. The cover letter should include:

1. Experience and training in biostatistics and handling of large datasets (please list competencies in advanced statistical techniques and statistical software packages)
2. Interest and experience in maternal and child health, and specifically in pregnancy and neurodevelopment.
3. 3 references with phone numbers, emails and addresses.
4. When you are available to start.

Vi tilbyr:

• Full time position.
• An exciting research environment with a multidisciplinary profile and good opportunities for academic development.
• Strong national and international collaborators.
• Salary according to current agreements.
• Favorable pension arrangements.