Senior Bioinformatic Research Scientist

The Senior Bioinformatics Research Scientist performs data analysis, data visualization, statistical analysis, experimental design, database development, mathematical modeling, and novel method development. Provides bioinformatics analysis for investigators and communicates analytical process and results.

Dr. Norman Davey Lab

We are seeking a Computational Biologist to join the Short Linear Motif (SLiM) Team, where we explore how motif-mediated protein interactions can be exploited to develop novel therapeutics. Our team integrates cutting-edge CRISPR perturbations, high-throughput peptide interactomics, and genetically encoded inhibitor screens to map the SLiM-mediated interactome and uncover disease-relevant vulnerabilities in human cells.

In this role, you will develop innovative computational approaches to accelerate the discovery, experimental characterisation, and therapeutic targeting of short linear motif interactions. You will create cutting-edge tools and resources to map, characterise, and analyse the motif-mediated interactome of human cells, generating new insights into cellular regulation and protein interaction networks that can inform the development of novel therapeutics.
Key Responsibilities:
Experimental Design & Execution:
Independently design and conduct experiments for protein motif analysis.
Develop tools for integrating diverse biological datasets to prioritize motif-centric hypotheses for experimental validation.
Create resources for comprehensive exploration of motif data.
Maintain meticulous records of all experiments and data.
Support and Extension of Exist Team Resource
Development and upkeep of the existing MoMaP resource and PepTools framework (PepTools, PSSMSearch, SLiMSearch)
General support for the groups web presence
Collaboration & Contribution:
Coordinate effectively with team and division members, contributing scientific input to develop and support research projects within a multidisciplinary collaborative environment.
Actively participate in the academic life of the laboratory and the St Jude Childrens Hospital
Professional Development:
Continuously expand knowledge of relevant literature in the subject area.
Present research findings at seminars and journal clubs.
Publish articles detailing novel methodologies and analyses.

Essential and Desirable Criteria:
Education & Knowledge:
Essential: PhD degree with a background in computational biology.
Desirable: Understanding of protein biology, short linear motifs and intrinsically disordered proteins.
Experience:
Essential:
Extensive experience in Python programming language.
Experience with Unix.
Experience with web and database development (e.g. FASTAPI, PostgreSQL and Ember/React)
Knowledge and experience in analyzing large datasets.
Significant publication record (or evidence of manuscript(s) being prepared for publication)
Skills:
Essential:
Competence in software development, optimization, and troubleshooting.
Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and ability to maintain accurate records.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to conduct effective collaborations.
Excellent interpersonal skills, demonstrating flexibility and the ability to establish effective working relationships.
General:
Essential:
Demonstrable excellent work ethic and time management skills.
Independent scientific thinking and a readiness to acquire a solid knowledge of project-relevant literature in a timely manner.
Highly committed, hardworking, enthusiastic, and dedicated to the research topic, with a strong interest in obtaining high-quality data and actively developing and shaping an innovative project.
Committed to learning new techniques/approaches required for the project.

Minimum Education and/or Training:

• Bachelor's degree in bioinformatics, cheminformatics, statistics/computer science (with a background in biological sciences or chemistry) or related field.
• Master's degree or PhD preferred.

Minimum Experience:

• Minimum Requirement: Bachelor's degree with 7+ years of relevant post-degree work in bioinformatics, cheminformatics, statistics/computer science (with a background in biological sciences or chemistry).
• Experience Exception: Master's degree with 5+ years of relevant post-degree experience (OR) PhD with 2+ years of relevant post-degree experience.
• Significant experience in at least one programming or scripting language and at least one statistical package, with R preferred.

Compensation

In recognition of certain U.S. state and municipal pay transparency laws, St. Jude is including a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This is an estimate offered in good faith and a specific salary offer takes into account factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the salary range and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $104,000 - $186,160 per year for the role of Senior Bioinformatic Research Scientist.

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St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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