Research Associate I Bioinformatics (S. Pearce)

Description of Work UnitThe Department of Soil and Crop Sciences is focused on education, research, and outreach to solve the world's most pressing food production issues and crucial matters about Earth, its ecosystems, and their services. Our faculty and staff apply research-based solutions to benefit Colorado and the world. We offer academic programs to prepare students to address national and global crop production, sustainability, and environmental quality challenges such as waste management, water quality, and reclamation of drastically disturbed lands. There are numerous opportunities for students to be involved in cutting edge research related to global food production and ecosystem function and protection. Position SummaryThe Pearce lab applies molecular biology and bioinformatics approaches to understand the genetic basis of important agricultural traits in wheat. Many of these experiments generate large volumes of sequencing data and we are searching for a dedicated research associate with experience in computing to process and analyze these data. The position will require processing and analyzing such datasets using a range of software packages and custom scripts to derive biological insights. The RA will also be expected to provide general computing support for other projects within the lab. Required Job Qualifications

• B.A./B.S. in computing science, programming or related field.
• Knowledge of and experience working with large datasets.
• Knowledge of at least one coding language and familiarity with using a Linux server.
• Effective verbal and written presentation skills.
• Effective interpersonal skills.

Preferred Job Qualifications

• Knowledge of and experience working with next-generation sequencing datasets and associated software packages.
• Knowledge of plant biology/genetics.
• Experience with detailed, accurate record keeping.

Diversity StatementReflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are expected to have the ability to advance the Department's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Job Duty Category: Data analysis/generation Duty/ResponsibilityAnalyzing and processing computing data files. The candidate will be responsible for downloading and processing large sequencing data files onto our internal server. The candidate will map this data to reference genomic and transcriptomic databases, calculate sequence variation and changes in transcript levels and report the extent of variation and expression levels to the PI. These analyses may require the development of custom bioinformatics scripts in either python/perl scripting languages to facilitate their analysis. The candidate will report results and progress to the PI in short written summaries and verbal meetings on a regular basis. The outcomes will be that through these analyses, valuable biological insights will be derived from these large datasets. Percentage Of Time: 90 Job Duty Category: Reporting Duty/ResponsibilityProvide summaries of results and research activities. Percentage Of Time: 10 Special Instructions to Applicants Upload the following application materials:

1. Cover letter addressing both required and preferred qualifications
2. Current resume or CV
3. Contact information of three (3) professional references. References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates.

Please apply by 11/14/16 for full consideration. Conditions of Employment Pre-employment Criminal Background Check (required for new hires) Search Contact Stephen.Pearce@colostate.edu EEO StatementColorado State University is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy and will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. The Office of Equal Opportunity is located in 101 Student Services. Background Check Policy StatementColorado State University (CSU) strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal (felony and misdemeanor) history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the university, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.