13.05.2025
admissions
Teele Palumaa
PhD
Institute of Genomics
Estonian Biobank Innovation Centre
Research Fellow

PhD position: Understanding the genetics, omics, and lifestyle contributions to eye diseases and their associations with systemic disorders 

PhD position
Author: Andres Tennus

Research project: Understanding the genetics, omics, and lifestyle contributions to eye diseases and their associations with systemic disorders

About the project:

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join a multidisciplinary project at the University of Tartu's Institute of Genomics. This project aims to determine the genetic and omics biomarkers underlying eye diseases and explores their associations with lifestyle factors and systemic disorders. The research combines large-scale data resources (Estonian Biobank, UK Biobank, FinnGen project) with advanced methods in epidemiology, genomics, and omics.

The project offers a unique chance to work at the intersection of clinical and molecular research. The doctoral student has an opportunity to complete a placement at the East Tallinn Central Hospital Eye Clinic to gain insight into healthcare data sources, improve phenotype accuracy, and develop strong links between clinical and academic perspectives.

Supervisors:

Dr Teele Palumaa, Prof. Priit Palta

Who we are:

You will join the Functional Genomics group at the Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu. Our international team is passionate about understanding the biological pathways linking genetics, environment, and disease. We have expertise in genomics, multi-omics integration, and precision medicine, and are actively involved in the development of next-generation analytical approaches for large-scale biobank data.

Read more about our group: https://genomics.ut.ee/en/content/research-group-functional-genomics

What we expect from the applicant:

  • A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in genetics, bioinformatics, statistics, medicine, or a related field
  • Interest in human health, vision science, complex disease, or omics
  • Good written and spoken English (minimum level B2)
  • Experience with R, Python, or other statistical/computational tools is highly beneficial

What we offer:

  • A funded full-time PhD position as a Junior Research Fellow
  • Access to rich population-based datasets and cutting-edge computational resources
  • Collaboration with an experienced team of researchers and clinicians
  • A supportive environment with opportunities for international networking and conference participation
  • Hands-on training in advanced omics analyses, causal inference, and data integration

What is needed to apply:

  • A motivation letter describing your interest in the project and relevant experience
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Official copies of Bachelor’s and Master’s diplomas and transcripts
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
  • A copy of your passport (bio page)

Application period: 1st–15th May 2025

Start date of studies: 1st September 2025

Get familiar:

Contact: Do not hesitate to contact the main supervisor Teele Palumaa ([email protected]) with any enquiries regarding the project or the group, and Merilin Raud ([email protected]) with general enquiries about PhD studies in UT IG.