Phd In Pangenomic Graphs

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The Modern and Ancient Genomes Group, located at Université Laval in Québec City, Canada, is seeking one qualified candidate for a vacant PhD position in bioinformatics. In this position, you will develop algorithms and computational methods to analyze large datasets from modern and ancient sources.

Current bioinformatics algorithms and software are often ill-equipped to deal with DNA extracted from ancient sources. This ancient DNA shows high levels of fragmentation and accumulated chemical damage. Furthermore, ancient sediments often contain DNA from multiple species and often multiple individuals. Fortunately, several problems pertaining to ancient DNA can be described in a maximum-likelihood framework and computer science techniques can help us to solve such numerical problems efficiently via numerical algorithms and data structures. The Modern and Ancient Genomes Group has previously used pangenome graphs to solve several of these problems. You will work in collaboration with other partners in Europe and North America in order to develop the next generation of algorithms and software applied to DNA extraction from fossils, ancient soils and sediments.

Responsibilities And Qualifications

Ideally, you have the following qualifications:

Knowledge of a programming language like Python, Perl, C++ and/or Java (C/C++ is preferred)

Ability to work in a UNIX environment, ideally in a high-performance computing environment

A thorough understanding of basic algorithms and data structures used in computer science

Knowledge of probabilities and statistics

Firm grasp of differential calculus and linear algebra

Experience in bioinformatics and knowledge of metagenomics are a plus, but not needed

Expertise in next-generation sequencing data generation and processing is also a plus

Ideally, you should have a Master’s (or equivalent) and a B.Sc degree in computer science, quantitative biology/biochemistry or mathematics.

Approval and Enrolment

The PhD degree is fully funded. The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval. The group is located within the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering but candidates can also choose to graduate within the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Bioinformatics.

Université Laval is one of the top research universities in Canada, recognized among the top research institutions in Canada for excellence in research, teaching, and innovation. French is the primary institutional language, but our research group works in English, and students are expected to be able to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing. We offer a rewarding and challenging position within a strong interdisciplinary and collegial environment. The Québec City region provides outstanding hiking opportunities in nearby Parc national de la Jacques‑Cartier and Mont‑Sainte‑Anne.

Salary and appointment terms

The period of employment is 4 years. Starting date is 1 May 2026 (or according to mutual agreement). The position is a full-time position.

Further information

Further information may be obtained from Prof. Gabriel Renaud.

Application procedure

Your complete application must include a CV with a list of publications and a letter of motivation explaining why you are applying and explaining any gaps in your CV. The documents must be submitted no later than Jan 20th 2026 (23:59 Eastern Standard Time). Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please email gabriel.renaud@ift.ulaval.ca with the subject line “PhD application” and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file.

All interested candidates, irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background, are encouraged to apply. We especially encourage women and applicants from Indigenous communities.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person