Post Doctoral Fellow

Job ID: 2017-36168
Job date: 2017-05-12
End Date:

Company : University of Arkansas 

Country :

Role : Postdoc 


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Job Description:
This is a unique opportunity to work with a diverse team of computational biologists, clinical oncologists and experimental scientists. We are looking for a self-motivated, highly organized, enthusiastic research fellow to join the laboratory of Dr. Brian Walker to analyze next generation sequencing data related to the genomics of multiple myeloma.

We have a long history of genomic analyses of myeloma using mapping and gene expression arrays as well as next generation sequencing (PMID: 26282654, PMID: 25904160, PMID: 22495321). Having performed extensive whole exome sequencing (PMID: 26282654), we are now in the process of performing whole genome sequencing, RNA-seq and bisulfite sequencing to comprehensively characterize the myeloma genome.

The successful candidate will work within a multidisciplinary research team that applies both computational and laboratory techniques to understand mechanisms responsible for genomic instability in multiple myeloma. This project will have a particular emphasis on the use of next generation sequencing analysis to identify novel drivers of disease and prognostically associated genetic markers.

Candidates who have been awarded, or are soon to be awarded, a PhD in a relevant discipline and have experience with a broad range of computer languages and visualization tools are invited to apply. Applicants must possess the ability to think independently while working within an interdisciplinary research team to drive research projects towards publication. Applications from candidates with a strong track record in genomic or epigenomic analysis are particularly welcome.

This post is available immediately.

Further details of the Research group’s work are available at: http://myeloma.uams.edu/about-us/meet-the-experts/research-scientists/brian-walker-ph-d/

Informal enquiries can be made to bwalker2@uams.edu

Job Purpose:

The purpose of this post is to analyze and investigate genomic data in multiple myeloma. We are in the process of performing whole genome sequencing, whole exome sequencing, RNA-sequencing and bisulfite sequencing on a large set of samples and require an individual to integrate with an existing team of bioinformaticians to analyze the data. There will also be a close interaction with ‘wet lab’ post-doctoral fellows and research technicians in the analysis and visualization of sample data. The individual will work closely with the existing team members to monitor data quality, process sequencing data, generate appropriate basic information (variant calls, quality metrics) and use these in further downstream analyses. The individual will be responsible for data management, reporting problems back to the laboratory, database implementation and presenting findings at internal meetings.

Responsibilities

Main Responsibilities

• Analyze data generated by multiple technologies for clinical and research purposes.

• Develop and support data processing and analysis tools.

• Maintain datasets, integrate tools and databases into existing high throughput pipelines

• Facilitate the display and distribution of processed data

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records to document the research progress

• Take a lead role in writing up data for publication in peer-reviewed journals

• Interact with other bioinformaticians and biologists and instruct in data analysis and summarization

• Present data at group and section meetings

• Contribute to the dissemination of research at national and international meetings

• Establish and maintain knowledge relevant to epigenetics, genomics and biology of multiple myeloma

Planning and Organizing:

The post-holder will plan and manage their program of research activity, to ensure that the research is conducted in accordance with the research timetable.

Problem Solving:

The post holder is expected to resolve most problems using accumulated experience, with only the more challenging, non-standard issues reported to the line manager for assistance. To use creativity, initiative and knowledge to identify areas for research, develop new research methods, and diversify the research parameters. Use initiative and experience to analyze and interpret research data, and draw conclusions from it. Use initiative to help other researchers in the team to resolve project problems and develop new techniques and methods, as appropriate.

Decision Making:

Taken independently: Organize own workload according to priority and adapt as necessary, setting of short-term time-lines, design experimental set-up to address specific research aims.

Level of direction given: The line manager will offer general orientation and advice, in addition to support in developing and implementing the research strategy.

Key Contacts/Relationships:

Internal: Line Manager: Dr Brian Walker. Other members of the laboratory and other laboratories within the Institute.

External: Participate in collaborations both nationally and internationally.

Qualifications

Person Specification

-Essential:

PhD in Biological Sciences, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Mathematics or a related field. Solid coding skills and experience in software development are critical. Proficiency in Python, Perl, R statistical language, C or C++ is preferred.

-Skills and experience:

*Solid coding skills and experience in software development are critical.

*Proficiency in Python or Perl and R statistical language and is highly desirable.

*Prior experience in large-scale data analysis.

*Experience in developing new research approaches.

*Ability to meet deadlines and multitask efficiently.

-Desirable:

*Proficiency in C or C++

*Experience in genomic and/or epigenomic technologies, particularly high-throughput sequencing.

*Background in cancer.

-Personal skills/behaviours/qualities:

*Ability to conduct high quality research.

*Self motivated.

*Good interpersonal skills for working within the group and with collaborators.

*Effective presentation skills to present to the group, the Institute and at scientific meetings.

*Ability to maintain clear and accurate records.

*Ability to work flexible hours when needed.

-Desirable:

One or more first authorship papers that have good-to-high impact.

-Dimensions:

*Interacting with other members of the Walker group.

*Active participation in critical discussions at group, section and Institute meetings.

*Produce data for first authorship publications in high impact journals.

*Present data at appropriate national and international meetings.

Salary: Negotiable


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