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Gabriel Renaud

1 week ago

Fully Funded PhD in Pangenomic Graphs, Ancient and Environmental DNA at Université Laval Université Laval in Canada

I am recruiting a fully funded PhD student in pangenomic graphs, ancient and environmental DNA at Université Laval.

Keywords

Computer Science
Biology
Mathematics
Data Structures
Computational Biology
Next-generation Sequencing
Statistics
Bioinformatics
Metagenomics
Algorithms

Description

The Modern and Ancient Genomes Group at Université Laval in Québec City, Canada, is seeking a fully funded PhD student to work on pangenomic graphs, ancient and environmental DNA. This interdisciplinary research opportunity focuses on developing algorithms and computational methods to analyze large datasets from both modern and ancient sources, addressing challenges such as DNA fragmentation and chemical damage in ancient samples. The group leverages pangenome graphs and advanced computer science techniques to solve complex problems in bioinformatics, metagenomics, and next-generation sequencing (NGS). As a PhD student, you will collaborate with partners in Europe and North America to develop next-generation algorithms and software for DNA extraction from fossils, ancient soils, and sediments. The research environment is highly interdisciplinary, situated within the Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, with options to graduate from the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Bioinformatics. The group is led by Professor Gabriel Renaud, an expert in computational biology and genomics. Applicants should have a strong background in computer science, quantitative biology, biochemistry, or mathematics, with proficiency in programming (Python, Perl, C++, or Java), UNIX environments, algorithms, data structures, statistics, and linear algebra. Experience in bioinformatics, metagenomics, and NGS is advantageous but not required. The working language of the group is English, and students must be able to communicate effectively in English both orally and in writing. The PhD position is fully funded for four years, with a comprehensive financial aid package that includes progression scholarships, leadership and commitment scholarships, mobility grants, graduate scholarships from granting agencies, and a supplemental tuition fee exemption for international students. The total value of scholarships and financial aid can reach up to $50,000, with additional savings for international students on tuition fees. Université Laval is recognized as one of Canada's top research universities, offering a vibrant academic environment and excellent research facilities. Québec City provides a high quality of life and outstanding opportunities for outdoor activities. The application deadline is January 20, 2026. Interested candidates should submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, CV with publications, and transcripts in English to Professor Gabriel Renaud at [email protected]. The group encourages applications from women and Indigenous communities and is committed to diversity and inclusion. For more information, visit the project page or contact Professor Renaud directly.

Funding

The PhD position is fully funded for 4 years. Financial aid includes progression scholarships totaling $12,000, leadership and commitment scholarships ($30,000 for Canadians/permanent residents and $30,000 for international students), mobility grants ($1,500–$3,000), graduate scholarships from granting agencies ($25,000–$40,000), and supplemental tuition fee exemption for international students (savings of ~$45,000). Funding is subject to academic approval and may vary based on eligibility and p

How to apply

Prepare a single PDF containing your cover letter, CV with publications, and transcripts. Submit your application in English by email to [email protected] by January 20, 2026. Ensure all materials are included for consideration. Visit the project link for more details.

Requirements

Applicants should have a Master's (or equivalent) and a B.Sc degree in computer science, quantitative biology/biochemistry, or mathematics. Strong programming skills in languages such as Python, Perl, C++, or Java (C/C++ preferred) are required, as well as experience in UNIX and ideally high-performance computing environments. A thorough understanding of algorithms, data structures, probabilities, statistics, differential calculus, and linear algebra is necessary. Experience in bioinformatics, metagenomics, and next-generation sequencing is a plus but not mandatory. Applicants must submit a cover letter, CV with publications, and transcripts as a single PDF. Proficiency in English (oral and written) is required.

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