Sebastian L. Berg

Sebastian L. Berg, M.Sc.

Bioinformatics & Population Genomics

I'm a bioinformatician with a strong background in population genomics and hands-on experience analyzing complex genomic datasets. My Master's thesis explored the population structure and demographic history of Calanus hyperboreus using targeted sequencing and SNP analysis. I work comfortably with R, Bash, and tools like GATK, SAMTOOLS, and PLINK2. Currently, I'm expanding my skill set by teaching myself SQL, Python, and C/C++.

Master's Thesis Research

GOT STRUCTURE? Population Genetic Structure and Demographic History of Calanus hyperboreus

Nord University | M.Sc. Biosciences, Genomics | July 2024

Abstract

Calanus hyperboreus, a keystone zooplankton species in Arctic food webs, has been understudied due to challenges in sequencing its large, repetitive genome. This study utilized target capture sequencing (TCS) to investigate its population genetic structure. From an initial ~4.9 million SNPs, a filtered dataset of 389 SNPs from 54 individuals across 11 locations was analyzed. Population genetic analyses revealed high levels of gene flow, suggesting C. hyperboreus is a single panmictic population. However, pairwise FST comparisons detected subtle but significant differentiation between certain locations. Demographic analyses (Tajima’s D, Site Frequency Spectrum) revealed a skew toward low-frequency variants, indicating a recent population expansion.

Skills & Specialities

Bioinformatics

I approach bioinformatics with an emphasis on understanding the algorithms behind the tools I use, allowing me to adapt workflows to new research questions. I build and refine pipelines using R and Bash, and work comfortably in the Linux command line to extract meaningful insights from genomic data.


Languages: R, Bash Scripting

Tools & Pipelines: GATK, VCFtools, PLINK2, SAMtools, BWA-MEM, ADMIXTURE, Trim Galore, Picard Tools, fastsimcoal2.

Genomic Analyses: SNP Calling, Population Structure (PCA, DAPC, ADMIXTURE), Demographic History (SFS, Tajima's D, Stairway Plots), F-statistics.

Programming & Scripting

I'm actively expanding my technical toolkit beyond bioinformatics by teaching myself general-purpose programming and data handling. I’m comfortable working in the Linux command line and enjoy building scripts and small tools to automate tasks and explore data.


Languages: Python, SQL, C/C++ (self-taught, ongoing)

Strenghts: Scripting, automation, data parsing, command-line workflows

Environment: Linux/Unix CLI, terminal-based tools

Analytics & Communication

I combine statistical analysis with clear, data-driven storytelling. My focus is on producing robust results and visualizations that communicate complex findings effectively, whether for publication or collaboration.


Data Visualization: Advanced use of ggplot2 and the Tidyverse for creating publication-quality figures

Statistical Analysis: Non-parametric tests (e.g., Mann–Whitney U), permutation testing, cross-validation

General Skills: Scientific communication, teamwork, problem solving, project coordination

Education & Experience

Education

  • M.Sc. in Biosciences, Genomics

    Nord University | 2022 – 2025

    Awarded "Best Master Student" (2024)

  • B.Sc. in Biology

    Nord University | 2019 – 2022

Certifications

  • FELASA Certification in Animal Experimentation (Functions A, B, D)
  • Driver's License - Class B

Work Experience

  • Accessioner / Sample Preparation & Labeling

    Labora | March 2025 – Present (Temporary Contract)

    Responsible for accessioning, preparing, and labeling biological samples, as well as logistics. Additional duties include sample handling and storage within the Cryolab facility.

  • Store Clerk

    COOP PRIX, Straumen | 2018 – 2024

    Maintained a permanent part-time position throughout my bachelor's and master's studies. Responsibilities included providing exceptional customer service, managing inventory and store displays, and handling sales transactions. This role strengthened my skills in communication, responsibility, and time management.