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Job Summary

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Research Associate II/III to join the Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department. This is a regular, full-time, exempt position, and is eligible for benefits.

We are seeking a self-driven computational biologist to assist with processing, integration and visualization of ocean 'omics data products. The candidate will have the opportunity to work between laboratory groups which produce unique ocean 'omics datasets from coral reefs, whales, hydrothermal vents, carbon capture/sequestration and microplastics. The candidate will drive the development of bioinformatics and data analysis platforms for these data, including opportunities for integration and visualization of unique multi 'omics datasets to help solve data analysis challenges. Experience with computer programming and bioinformatics is essential, such as Python and R programming, as well as experience with statistics and 'omics datasets. Experience working with others or in a group setting as well as balancing multiple projects is also desired. Experience with machine learning is desired.

This position is full-time and is renewable annually depending on performance and funding availability. Application must be done electronically, through WHOI's careers portal, and must include a detailed cover letter that outlines your prior experience as it pertains to this position, and full curriculum vitae including contact information for four references. The position is available immediately. The hiring level will be commensurate with experience.

The internal working title for this position would be Research Associate II, or Research Associate III. The final level of the position will be determined commensurate with the selected candidate's level of education & experience.

Essential Functions

This person will expand the 'omics data analysis capabilities of diverse lab groups in the Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department. We seek a self-driven computational biologist with experience in bioinformatics pipelines and 'omics data analysis. The candidate will work between several investigators on a variety of projects, and must be self-driven and able to work in a group setting as well as alone. Routine duties will include:

• Developing bioinformatic pipelines for data projects
• Contributing to data analysis and data management for research related tasks
• Developing new integration and visualization approaches for 'omics data
• Integrating project and tools with existing high-performance computing cluster
• Training students and staff in analysis methods when applicable

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• As deemed necessary by supervisor
• Participating in field research expeditions if on-site data integration is needed

Education & Experience

A Master's degree in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Oceanography, Microbiology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or a related field is required or a Bachelor's degree with multiple years of experience. Relevant work experience is desirable.

The following background experience is particularly desirable:

• Bioinformatics experience or training
• Experience working with at least one type of 'omics data product (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, etc)
• Experience with machine learning
• Background in earth science, oceanography or environmental science

Special Requirements

• WHOI has a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy in effect, where you must register your full vaccination status [vaccination plus booster] in order to begin your employment. The registration process is confidential and entails submitting your official vaccination records, or requesting to engage in the interactive exemption process for either a medical or religious reason.

Physical Requirements

This position will be mostly sedentary. Physical tasks include occasional use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, and repetitive motion. Other occupational requirements include working in a lab setting, talking, traveling, working around and with others, as well as alone. Physical duties are subject to change.

Sea Duty

Sea time is optional but desired

Whan at sea, may work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.