Bioinformatics Analyst – 3D Genomics & Epigenetics

  • Full-time

Company Description

The lab of Dr. Kyle Eagen (www.eagenlab.org) at Baylor College of Medicine focuses on elucidating how DNA folds within cells and how DNA misfolding relates to human disease. Baylor College of Medicine is widely recognized for its exceptional, innovative, and collaborative research environment. It is investing significant resources in expanding interdisciplinary research in the computational, genomic, cellular, and molecular bases of human health and disease. Dr. Eagen’s lab applies state-of-the-art computational strategies to contribute significantly to biomedical research while fostering career development. The lab is located in the Texas Medical Center, the largest biomedical complex in the world, immediately adjacent to Houston’s vibrant Museum District and Hermann Park.

Job Description

A Bioinformatics Analyst position is available immediately in the laboratory of Dr. Kyle Eagen. The individual will identify and implement computational solutions to research problems related to genome 3D structure in health and disease. They will be responsible for taking on highly interdisciplinary projects and critical functions in this endeavor, including applying state-of-the-art open-source software for basic and advanced analysis of next-generation sequencing data with an emphasis on high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) data. They will also analyze epigenetics and transcriptomic datasets. In addition, they will work closely with Dr. Eagen to expand their skill set and develop cutting-edge computational tools while having opportunities to present research findings at conferences and network with colleagues.

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, well organized, manage time effectively, and can work independently as well as part of a team. They will obtain fundamental, career-building exposure in bioinformatics, computational biology, and biostatistics as they develop scripts in languages such as Python and R while using Linux/Unix and high-performance computing (HPC) to analyze genomics data.

Job Duties

  • Apply their advanced skillset to manage, plan for, and analyze genomics data:
    • Maintain and expand upon existing computational pipelines for Hi-C, ChIP-seq, CUT&RUN, and RNA-seq
    • Interpret results by applying and/or developing appropriate statistical and/or machine learning analysis for Hi-C, ChIP-seq, CUT&RUN, and RNA-seq
    • Collaborate with wet lab scientists to interpret and refine Hi-C, ChIP-seq, CUT&RUN, and RNA-seq analysis, including statistical tests
    • Develop novel computational and visualization tools to further the analysis and interpretation of Hi-C data
  • Administrative
    • Prepare reports, charts, and graphs for presentations and publications
    • Maintain detailed records of computational code and processes
    • Manage next-generation DNA sequencing data 
    • Search and evaluate scientific literature in support of research projects
    • Co-author scientific papers
  • Effectively interact with team members to make important contributions on big problems while ensuring a high standard of scientific rigor.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Genetics, Biology or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in a related field
  • Demonstrated experience in:
    • Infrastructure: Linux Operating System and PBS or SLURM cluster-based computing
    • Programming Languages: Python, Shell Scripting, R
    • Analytical: critical thinking, data modeling, problem solving, troubleshooting
  • Demonstrated ability working with open-source bioinformatics software
  • Experience analyzing RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq and/or Hi-C data
  • A record of taking initiative to solve problems and working to high-quality standards
  • Attention to detail and accurate record keeping
  • Ability to multitask, work and learn independently, and be self-motivated

Additional Information

A top priority of Baylor College of Medicine is to reward employees for their hard work and dedication. As part of this commitment, Baylor offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to meet the needs of a diverse workforce, while providing meaningful choices to meet individual and family needs. Additional benefits details are available at https://www.bcm.edu/careers/benefits.

For more information about the Eagen Lab and Baylor College of Medicine please visit www.eagenlab.org and https://www.bcm.edu/careers. 

Baylor College of Medicine requires employees to be fully vaccinated – subject to approved exemptions – against vaccine-preventable diseases including, but not limited to, COVID-19 and influenza. 

Baylor College of Medicine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer.