Bioinformatics Specialist
Job Title: Bioinformatics Specialist
Supervisor's Title: Project Manager
Location: Bethesda, MD
The ideal candidate will have both bench-based and computer-based bioinformatics expertise will work closely with NIH scientists to provide customized solutions for a broad variety of biological experiments in the subject areas of virology and immune response to viral infection, as well as write programs, statistical applications, and design relational databases. A critical component of the duties will be to develop high-throughput DNA sequencing techniques from a variety of input material, perform high throughput pyrosequencing analyses, and analyze the data generated.
Responsibilities:
- Performs high-throughput DNA sequence analysis from a variety of input material using pyrosequencing technology
- Develops and validates technical protocols for high-throughput sequence analysis of both DNA and cDNA
- Performs data analysis of high-throughput sequencing data using a variety of software programs
- Conducts independent research under the guidance of the Chief, Viral Pathogenesis and Evolution Section, including planning, and conducting of experiments, data analysis and peer reviewed publication of data.
- Assists in the analysis and interpretation of data and prepares summaries of laboratory findings to be used in reports and papers to be presented at scientific meetings and/or publication in scientific journals. Actively participates in the preparation of manuscripts, abstracts, and/or posters. May co-author publications or is senior author on abstracts. Presents findings at scientific meetings and conferences.
- May interact and/or collaborate with scientists from other organizations or institutions involved in similar or related research projects.
- Interacts with students and other laboratory personnel in the use of sophisticated laboratory equipment and in the performance of specialized procedures, techniques, etc.
- Performs computer analysis of data and use computer and computer software to prepare data for publication.
- Maintains accurate, daily records of experiments.
- Is responsible for quality control of the lab including upkeep and routine maintenance of equipment. Orders and maintains laboratory supplies and equipment including chemicals, biological materials, liquid nitrogen, etc.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Candidate must have extensive experience in basic molecular biology skills including preparation and analysis of nucleic acids, DNA and RNA purification, amplification, and enzymatic modification, including PCR, semi-quantitative and quantitative RT-PCR and recombinant DNA technology.
- Candidate must have experience with high throughput DNA sequencing platforms and pyrosequencing.
- Experience with high throughput DNA sequencer instrumentation and data analysis software.
- Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills required.
- Attention to detail, time management skills, ability to work independently with a high level of personal and professional drive and initiative required, ability to manage time between multiple concurrent projects.
- Ability to work independently without constant supervision.
- Good knowledge of computer systems, familiar with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and data analysis software.
- Previous experience working with biologists strongly preferred.
- Masters degree or Ph.D. with laboratory based training in molecular biology required (minimum experience of 2 years).
