Investigator - Associate Level

JOB SUMMARY

The Investigator is mainly responsible for developing and implementing translational computational research programs for unravelling the complex relationship between the human genome, biological traits and diseases, focusing on Qatar and the MENA region, ultimately leading to novel therapeutic targets and approaches. Focus on building knowledge bases for nationwide interest involving high throughput omics data and reference datasets and panels enabling integrative data mining and complex investigation of a wide spectrum of biological and clinical research questions ranging from complex diseases such as cancer and autoimmune to rare diseases.

She/he leads a team of bioinformaticians, scientists and software developers, and will be in charge of co-driving computational research at Sidra by building platforms, frameworks and protocols complying with current ethical and regulatory requirements, in collaboration with Sidra`s staff. The PI works closely with IT infrastructure teams to help bridge the link with other experimental researchers. S/he also coordinates with other staff regarding study design, sample collection, patient enrolment and follow-up. S/he provides computational support for the generation of data with the purpose of designing specific studies and supervises a team working on data analysis, integration, and interpretation, working in close contact with other scientists, research engineers, statisticians, project managers and staff clinicians.

The successful candidate will bring proven experience in computational modeling and the integration of complex multi‑omics data, coupled with hands-on expertise in AI and machine learning methodologies. They will apply these approaches to address biological and translational research questions and contribute to the strategic development of data‑driven research programs.

The PI participates in various scientific, managerial ad ethical committees at Sidra and externally with relevance to the research performed and assigned roles.

S/he is also responsible for the promotion of the results generated by Sidra’s studies among the scientific community. His/hers duty also includes the publication of the results in peer-reviewed journals and in other relevant scientific publications

KEY ROLE ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Makes decisions about computational research strategies and initiation and implementation of research projects and programs.
• Establishes and leads programs of computational biology research related to Sidra’s research strategy.
• Supervises and trains staff scientists, researchers, postdocs, software developers, students and trainees.
• Works with other scientists in existing programs such as Qatar Genome Program.
• Collaborates closely with other research and clinical departments to develop research initiatives.
• Develops and implements research proposals related to Sidra's research strategy.
• Collaborates with other investigators in the development of research proposals.
• Secures / applies for funding and other resources.
• Responsible for laboratories and other research facilities directly connected with research program.
• Publishes regularly in local and international peer-reviewed journals.
• Presents regularly at local and international scientific conferences.
• Develops novel and relevant approaches to systems genetics and genomics research.
• Regularly attends group and department meetings.
• Attends Sidra committees when appropriate.
• Adheres to Sidra’s standards as they appear in the Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest policies

• Adheres to and promotes Sidra’s Values.
  

QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS – SELECTION CRITERIA

Education

ESSENTIAL : Ph. D degree.

Track record in computational biology research in academia or pharmaceutical industry.

Research Fellowships.

PREFERRED : Formal post-doctoral training

Formal training in genetics.

Experience

ESSENTIAL : PhD plus 8+ years of experience / MD plus PhD plus 3 years of experience / MD plus 8+ years of experience

Must demonstrate strong credentials in competitive funding, publications in peer-reviewed journals, and be recognized for excellence in professional circles in research, and service to the scientific community.

Participated in large international research consortia

Must have authored and/or co-authored high impact peer-reviewed research articles

Recognition for scientific excellence and effective teamwork in one or more world-class research institutions

PREFERRED : Experience at a major Qatari healthcare organization

Job Specific Skills and Abilities

ESSENTIAL : Demonstrated excellent people management skills

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written

Excellent methodological skills

Demonstrated ability to conduct clinical research within the Arabian Gulf

Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite

Fluency in written and spoken English

PREFERRED: Knowledge of Arabic culture.