Assists in developing and conducting research projects, including experiment design, data analysis, and documentation of experiment results. The Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Neurology, has an opening for a staff data scientist to join the NeuroGenomics and Informatics Center (NGI).
The successful candidate will be involved in projects to perform big-data research, bundling genetics, multi-omics, biomarker, clinical, and histopathological data, to harness the full range of biologically relevant data to better understand Alzheimerâ™s disease and related dementias. There is a particular emphasis on addressing important questions regarding sex dimorphisms, ancestry, and health disparities in Alzheimerâ™s disease. Another primary focus is the cross-modal integration of Alzheimerâ™s disease genomics with brain-imaging derived phenotypes to elucidate how genetics contributes to disease heterogeneity. Overall, this research will contribute importantly to the discovery of novel risk genes, steer basic research and drug development, and advance personalized medicine.Â
Job Description
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
Designs, develops, and implements:
Algorithms and computer software for omics-based data sets [high-throughput, massively parallel genomic/proteomic/clinical].
Data management and analysis solutions that aid in the storage, investigation, and dissemination of large data sets.
Independent research projects, including design of research protocols and development of procedures for the collection, verification, and management of data.
Performs complex systems analysis of data and writes interpretative reports.
Evaluates commercial and academic bioinformatics software.
Trains other researchers on the everyday use of analysis software and research databases.
Assists with grant preparation and reporting of methods, data, and results.
Solves practical problems relating to difficulties with equipment or test subjects; suggests technical or procedural improvements in testing methods.
Preferred Qualifications
Masterâ™s degree or Doctor of Philosophy in computer science or related field.
Experience using computing clusters (batch processing), cloud computing services, and containerization.Â
Experience with population genetics, genomics, and (whole genome) sequencing data, as well as related analytical approaches (Plink, GWAS, gene-burden, QTL colocalization, mendelian randomization, etc.).Â
Experience with analysis of multi-omics data and cross-modal integration with genetics and imaging data.Â
Analytical, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
Good understanding of computational biology, probabilistic models, statistics, machine learning, and discrete mathematics.
Ability to analyze and interpret large complex data sets, such as genome sequences, microarray gene expression studies, human genetic studies, and model organism studies, and to communicate data in a clear, concise manner.
Expertise in standard bioinformatics tools.
Proficiency in scientific programming languages (e.g., Python, R, Perl, Java), in a UNIX/Linux and/or Windows environment.
Required Qualifications
Bachelorâ™s degree in computer science, bioinformatics, biostatistics, or related field plus four years of experience; or masterâ™s degree in computer science, bioinformatics, biostatistics, or related field plus two years of experience; or combined education and experience of nine years.
Grade
R11
Salary Range
$55,200.00 - $100,000.00 / AnnuallyThe salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.
Questions
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Accommodation
If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.
Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.
Benefits Statement
Personal
Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
Want to Live Near Your Work and/or improve your commute? Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees. We also offer a forgivable home loan of up to $12,500 for closing costs and a down payment for homes in eligible neighborhoods.
WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
Wellness
Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!
Family
We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? Weâ™ve got you covered.
WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the Universityâ™s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.
Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment â“ fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.
Washington University in St. Louis, a medium-sized, independent university, is dedicated to challenging its faculty and students alike to seek new knowledge and greater understanding of an ever-changing, multicultural world. The University offers more than 90 programs and almost 1,500 courses leading to bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in a broad spectrum of traditional and interdisciplinary fields, with additional opportunities for minor concentrations and individualized programs. The faculty is composed of scholars, scientists, artists and members of the learned professions. They serve society by teaching; by adding to the store of human art, creativity, understanding, and wisdom; and by providing direct services, such as health care.