Bioinformatician, Data Analyst (Part Time)

The data will mostly consist of DNA sequencing data from long and short read platforms and public raw or analyzed datasets, with the goal of producing genome assemblies, annotation, and the overall characterization of genetic features of eukaryotic genomes.

The successful candidate will be proficient in executing software and commands via the command line, will have worked with long- and short-read sequencing data, and must have a deep understanding of eukaryotic genetics and genomics. Experience in developing and maintaining pipelines is also required.

The position requires to interact with colleagues, collaborators, and customers of very different backgrounds. The supervisor will provide moderate guidance in project planning and execution. A high degree of initiative, resourcefulness, dynamism, and professionalism are necessary.

Applicants with no experience in handling DNA and RNA sequencing data will not be considered.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.

• Genome assembly and quality assessment. Using PacBio HiFi, ONT, and Hi-C data to generate eukaryotic genome assemblies, including manual curation. Will use established protocols for genome assemblies and manual curation. Execute available software (e.g. Hifiasm, Verkko, Merqury) and custom-made scripts to generate highly accurate, complete, and phased assemblies.
• Genome annotation and variant detection. Execute established software (e.g. BRAKER, EDTA) to identify the main genome features (e.g. genes, repeats, transposable elements, and more), with guidance as needed. Genome alignments and comparison, variant calling, integration of other resources (e.g. transcriptome, optical maps) and similar analyses as the need may arise.
• Analyze novel and different datasets (e.g. 16S, transcriptome, resequencing) for project-specific goals (e.g. population genomics, demography, functional characterization), including the conceptualization and implementation of new methods.
• Reporting, meetings, dissemination. Summarize work in reports, tables, scientific manuscripts. Interact with colleagues and external partners to give and receive feedback. Attend meetings, take notes, contribute to writing manuscripts and research proposals.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of plant genome analysis, evolutionary analyses, population genomics.
• Extended knowledge of genome sequencing technologies and handling of the data.
• High proficiency of Unix command line, executing software, developing and running workflows.
• Familiar with high-performance computing infrastructure.
• Experienced in Nextflow/Cromwell or other pipeline tools.
• Able to critically evaluate the quality of the results and to perform novel analyses as required.
• Excellent technical writing skills, maintaining and sharing documentation, note taking, and reporting at different audiences.
• Highly developed communication skills: verbal and digital.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.