50% Research Associate - Infectious Diseases

BASIC FUNCTION

The Research Assistant – Computational Scientist supports research efforts in Dr. Priya Issuree’ laboratory, which studies epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation in immune cells. This position will provide computational support by analyzing experiments across laboratory projects and will require analysis, organization and interpretation of both newly generated and existing genomic datasets and using computational tools to perform integrated and multimodal data analyses, under the PI’s supervision. This role involves the development, implementation, and maintenance of computational pipelines; application of statistical tests and rigor to generation of integrative models of gene function in immune cells. The RA will work closely with scientists, trainees, and collaborators and will contribute to study design, data interpretation, visualization, and dissemination. The position may also support data infrastructure efforts, including computational tools that enhance data sharing, reproducibility, and discovery.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Computational and Bioinformatic Analysis:

• Perform bioinformatic analyses (scRNA-Seq, ATAC-Seq, Cut and Tag, DNA methylation) based upon protocols developed by the principal investigator of the research project.

• Perform combinatorial/multimodal bioinformatic analyses and appropriate statistical analyses, and generate graphical outputs to visualize findings.

• Use multimodal datasets to develop new hypotheses and generate avenues for biological validation and testing by other team and lab members, with assistance from the PI

• Generate figures, summaries, and visualizations for manuscripts, presentations, grant applications, and internal reports.

Data management, analysis and compliance:

• Proper documentation of bioinformatic codes used for different projects and establish a systematic approach to easily locate, analyze, and store data.

• Develop and rigorously test new pipelines as necessary and ensure methods used are scientifically sound

• Assist in preparing documentation of computational methods for publications and regulatory or funding requirements, as directed by the Principal Investigator

• Develop independence in troubleshooting, analysis, and propose modifications to protocols; present results at team meetings and meet with collaborators as needed.

• Adhere to safety and compliance guidelines in the laboratory.

• Adhere to Quality Assurance protocols to maintain the validity and integrity of research data.

Administrative and Project Management:

• Assist with manuscript and grant preparations, under PI’s supervision

• Track various indicators of project progress and summarize in reports to the research team. Prepare data/ project updates and results for discussion at weekly meeting with PI.

Facilities and Equipment Management:

• Assist in the maintenance of cloud servers and external servers used for data storage at the university

• Ensuring proper functioning of all hardware and software needed for data analysis and storage