Assistant Research Data Scientist -Data & Bioinformatics
About The Position
The Assistant Research Data Scientist – Data & Bioinformatics is a service-focused technical expert within the Center for Managed Technology Services (CMTS). This role supports researchers across disciplines by delivering outcome-based services in bioinformatics, data engineering, advanced analytics, and cloud-based research computing. Operating under CMTS’s cost-recovery service block model, the Assistant Research Data Scientist offers high-skill human capital that transforms raw data into reproducible workflows, actionable insights, and sustainable solutions. The successful candidate will work across multiple projects to analyze next-generation sequencing (NGS) data, design scalable pipelines, integrate heterogeneous datasets, and train researchers in modern data practices.
Requirements
- Ph.D. with relevant experience in Bioinformatics, Data Science, Computational Biology, or related field.
- Hands-on expertise in NGS data analysis and/or large-scale data engineering.
- Proficiency in Python, R, SQL, and distributed computing frameworks (e.g., Apache Spark).
- Experience with workflow automation (Snakemake, Nextflow) and cloud platforms (Azure preferred).
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Service-oriented mindset with focus on measurable outcomes.
- Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
Nice To Haves
- Significant experience in Bioinformatics, Data Science, Computational Biology, or related field.
- Experience with Azure Databricks, Delta Lake, or equivalent cloud-native analytics tools.
- Background in agricultural, life sciences, or environmental sciences.
- Familiarity with NIH/NSF data mandates, FAIR principles, and institutional compliance frameworks.
- Experience delivering technical training to non-technical audiences.
Responsibilities
- NGS and Bioinformatics Analysis Process raw sequencing data (quality control, alignment, assembly, variant calling). Apply functional annotation, gene expression analysis, and microbiome profiling. Deliver biological interpretations in formats suitable for publication, compliance, and grant deliverables.
- Scientific Leadership & Research Enablement Exercises independent scientific judgment and analysis to support and enhance research projects conducted by other researchers. Advises investigators on experimental design, analytical approaches, and appropriate computational methods across genomics, bioinformatics, and data science. Translates research questions into rigorous analytical strategies, selecting methods, models, and tools aligned with scientific objectives.
- Data Engineering and Cloud Analytics Build and optimize reproducible pipelines using Python, R, SQL, Bash, Snakemake, or Nextflow. Deploy workflows on HPC, institutional servers, and cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, Databricks). Implement FAIR-compliant data stewardship and governance.
- Applied Machine Learning and Statistics Apply statistical models, ML/AI methods, and predictive analytics to research datasets. Develop scalable analytic workflows for interdisciplinary projects across life sciences, agriculture, and environmental domains.
- Consultation and Researcher Engagement Translate PI research goals into executable data strategies. Recommend tools, platforms, and analytic approaches tailored to project needs. Support grant proposals through data strategy input and compliance alignment.
- Training and Education Deliver workshops, tutorials, and guides on bioinformatics, data science, and cloud workflows. Mentor graduate students and faculty in best practices for reproducibility and data management. Contribute to shared knowledge resources for institutional capacity-building.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums
- 12-15 days of annual paid holidays
- Up to eight hours of paid sick leave and at least eight hours of paid vacation each month
- Automatic enrollment in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas
- Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
