Computational Biologist | School of Medicine | Neurology

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Summary:

The computational biologist will perform the analysis associated with genomic data sets. The biologist is expected to process genomic, exome, or RNA data derived from blood, muscle, or other tissue samples using the necessary computational tools. The biologist will analyze and interpret these data as well. The position will be within the Johnson laboratory and work directly with other laboratory staff on the quality control sample preparation for batch effects and other quality measures. The position may include analysis of other data sets derived from natural history studies or clinical trials. The biologist is expected to have a basic understanding of laboratory procedures. The biologist is expected to be familiar with coding in multiple languages, use of bioinformatic tools necessary to map, trim, and otherwise prep genomic data. The use of tools for splicing analysis, variant calling, and other GWAS techniques is essential.

Typical Duties

Responsibility 1 (50%): Data Analysis & Visualization

o Task 1: Analysis of -omics data in conjunction with CIMR Faculty, staff, and students.
o Task 2: Pipeline development via iterative testing of software and tools for leveraging computational applications in qc, processing, and analyzing genomic or other biological data to create a reproducible and reliable, automated method of consecutive flow of data handling and output of results for visualization and further analysis
o Task 3: Generation of figures and written analysis of computational methods for use in presentations, publications, and grant applications
o Task 4: Participation in meetings to discuss computational methodologies for analysis of -omics data and clinical data.
o Task 5: Upkeep reliable notebook of computational methodologies used to analyze data.

Responsibility 2 (20%): Bioinformatic infrastructure maintenance and development

o Task 1: Organization and management of -omics data generated by CIMR Faculty, staff, and students in computing cluster.
o Task 2: Development and maintenance of current and new pipelines/tools for processing -omics data
o Task 3: Oversee CIMR lab presence on VCU hpc systems and communicate with VCU computing cluster management

Responsibility 3 (20%): Clinical Data and Translational Research Updates

o Task 1: Coordinate with database programmer as needed to pull records for translational research use
o Task 2: Collaborate with clinical data manager and staff for routine review and project-based processing/cleaning/progress updates
o Task 3: Maintain records to bridge information between clinical samples and lab processes

Responsibility 4 (10%): Lead Research Data Resources/Repository

o Task 1: Assist CIMR faculty, staff, and students with bioinformatics, coding, data handling, best practices, and other relevant concerns
o Task 2: Advise on experimental design, analyses, statistical methods, project planning
o Task 3: Maintain any relevant lab github or data repositories

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biostatistics or similar program
• One to two years of experience with bioinformatics tools such as Samtools, Nextflow, Deseq2, fastqc, Star, Hisat, Rmats, R, python, cutadapt, trim galore, featurecounts, and/or others
• One to two years of experience working RNA splicing data and analysis
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from various backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biostatistics or similar program
• Any experience working with laboratory and/or clinical teams
• Any experience working with rare genetic or neuromuscular disorders

Kelly Barnes
Kelly.Cecil@vcuhealth.org