We are currently seeking a creative and self-motivated Bioinformatics Specialist to work in the Mougous Laboratory at the University of Washington in Seattle, WA. This individual will work collaboratively with a dynamic and interactive team that primarily investigates the mechanisms bacteria employ for interbacterial competition in complex communities such as the gut microbiome. More information about the Mougous lab can be found here: mougouslab.org
The Bioinformatics Specialist will collaborate with the scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and students to develop and execute computational methods and tools for the analysis of complex biological datasets (e.g. DNA sequence data, proteomics data) generated in-house and for making biological insights from publicly available ‘omics’ datasets.
For consideration for this position, please apply directly through the our website and do not contact the lab directly. Please be sure to include a cover letter with your application.
Responsibilities
Create tools to manage and analyze next-generation sequencing datasets using cloud computing infrastructure (AWS).
Develop programs and/or scripts to facilitate large-scale data mining of genome sequence and expression datasets and databases. This can include pipelines for detection of duplications, copy number variants, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms in genome and amplicon sequence data.
Collaborate with postdoctoral and doctoral researchers and work independently on research projects as assigned by the Investigator and Senior Scientists.
Prepare summaries, reports, and figures to be included in publications and presented at lab group meetings.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in bioinformatics, computer science, or similar discipline is required. Master’s degree is preferred.
Experience
At least 2-3 years of relevant research experience in bioinformatics and/or computational biology is required.
Experience in genomics research is preferred.
Extensive experience in two or more programming languages (Python, R, Java, C/C++, Perl, etc.); experience with Python and its scientific libraries (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas, Snakemake).
An understanding of common bioinformatics file formats (FASTQ, SAM/BAM, VCF, BED).
Experience using one of the major cloud platforms, preferably AWS.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Prior experience with, or interest in learning basic biological concepts
Proficient skill with integrating data and systems.
Proficient skill with existing bioinformatics software tools (e.g., BWA, GATK, BLAST, CLUSTALW, MEGA), particularly for data mining of whole-genome shotgun sequence data.
Skilled with Linux/Unix and comfortable working in a command line environment.
Ability to perform independent analyses and report findings to collaborative groups.
Technical proficiency and collaborative ability as well as independent thought.
Ability to develop innovative processes to achieve goals. Reviews work activities to determine where new information could improve processes or move projects forward.
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
Strong multitasking and project management skills.
Ability to be flexible and effectively adapt to changing priorities.
Physical Requirements:
Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).
Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Please Note:
This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer