Research Associate II - MC&G

Job Summary

Job Description

We are seeking a self-driven computational biologist with a passion for understanding the genomes and functions of marine microorganisms to conduct processing, statistical analysis, integration and visualization of marine microbial sequence-based datasets. The candidate will drive the development of bioinformatics and data analysis platforms for datasets primarily from poorly characterized organisms and environmental systems, and especially corals and coral reef ecosystems.

The successful candidate will bring experience with comparative genomics, phylogenomics, gene and protein-family analysis, genomic-context and functional inference, genotype-to-phenotype hypothesis generation, biosynthetic gene clusters, metabolic pathways, genome and metagenome assembly and annotation, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, long-read sequencing, HMM-based analyses, protein clustering, large-scale sequence comparison, and 16S rRNA gene analysis. Proficiency in Python and its scientific libraries, R, Bash/Unix, SQL, Nextflow or Snakemake, HPC systems, SLURM or Sun Grid Engine, AWS, Git, and scalable computational workflows is expected, along with familiarity with tools such as MEGAHIT, Prodigal, HMMER/Pfam, CD-HIT, GATK, and comparative and phylogenetic analysis software. Hands-on experience with sequencing approaches as well as DNA and RNA isolation; PCR, qRT-PCR, microbial cultivation and fermentation and experimental design that connect genomic predictions to biological phenotypes is also preferred.

This position is full-time and is renewable annually depending on performance and funding availability. Application must be done electronically, through WHOI’s careers portal, and must include a detailed cover letter that outlines your prior experience as it pertains to this position, and full curriculum vitae including contact information for three references. The position is available immediately. The hiring level will be commensurate with experience.

The internal working title for this position will be Research Associate II. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education & experience.

Essential Functions:

This person will process and analyze marine microbial sequence datasets in the Microbial Ecology for Ocean Conservation Laboratory led by Dr. Amy Apprill. We seek a self-driven computational biologist with experience in developing and running bioinformatics pipelines for microbial genomics analysis. The candidate must be self-driven and able to balance multiple projects. Routine duties will include:

• Developing and running bioinformatic pipelines for data projects
• Contributing to data analysis and data management for research related tasks
• Integrating project and tools with existing high-performance computing cluster
• Training students and staff in analysis methods when applicable

Non-Essential Functions

• As deemed necessary by supervisor

Education & Experience

A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Oceanography, Microbiology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or a related field is required or a Bachelor’s degree with multiple years of experience. Relevant work experience is desirable.

The following background experience is particularly desirable:

• Bioinformatics experience or training
• Experience in marine microbiology
• Interest in coral reef environments

Physical Requirements

This position will be mostly sedentary. Physical tasks include occasional use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, and repetitive motion. Other occupational requirements include working in a lab setting, talking, traveling, working around others, with others, as well as alone. Physical duties are subject to change.

Additional Job Requirements

Salary Range: $70,963-$91,796

The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package. 

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.