Computational Biologist Genomics

Cherokee Federal•Frederick, MD

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Cherokee Nation Integrated Health (CNIH) is seeking a Computational Biologist I to support genomic sequencing, biological data analysis, and bioinformatics pipeline development at Fort Detrick, Maryland. In this role, you will work with laboratory scientists to analyze sequencing data generated from Oxford Nanopore and Illumina platforms, develop and execute computational workflows, and translate complex genomic data into meaningful scientific findings. The successful candidate will possess a strong foundation in biology and genomics, experience working in Linux-based computational environments, and the ability to work independently while collaborating closely with laboratory scientists. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an early-career computational biologist who enjoys solving complex scientific problems, developing analytical workflows, and continuously learning new technologies in a collaborative research environment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Biology, Genomics, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related scientific discipline.
Minimum one year of experience supporting bioinformatics, computational biology, genomics, or biological data analysis.
Working knowledge of genomics and next-generation sequencing technologies.
Familiarity with both Oxford Nanopore and Illumina sequencing platforms, including an understanding of the differences between the technologies.
Experience working within Linux or Unix operating systems.
Experience using Bash scripting.
Experience using high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
Experience performing sequence demultiplexing, de novo genome assembly, and reference genome alignment.
Experience using R or Python for biological data analysis.
Ability to independently troubleshoot computational workflows and analytical problems.
Strong scientific writing, analytical thinking, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary scientific team.
Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.
Active Secret clearance or the ability to obtain a Secret clearance.
Must be a US Citizen.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred.
Experience developing or maintaining bioinformatics pipelines.
Experience with Java or willingness to learn Java.
Experience with Docker or other workflow containerization tools.
Experience preparing scientific manuscripts or conference presentations.
Experience supporting sequencing workflows in a research laboratory.
Experience working with biological metadata and data integration.

Responsibilities

Analyze genomic and biological datasets generated from Oxford Nanopore and Illumina sequencing platforms.
Execute, test, troubleshoot, and maintain bioinformatics analysis pipelines in Linux and high-performance computing environments.
Perform sequence quality assessment, demultiplexing, de novo genome assembly, and reference-based genome alignment.
Develop and maintain Bash scripts and computational workflows that improve the efficiency and reproducibility of genomic analyses.
Support analysis of high-throughput sequencing data and communicate results to laboratory scientists and principal investigators.
Collaborate with wet laboratory personnel to interpret sequencing results and troubleshoot analytical issues.
Evaluate existing computational workflows and recommend improvements to increase efficiency, reproducibility, and scientific accuracy.
Prepare technical reports, standard operating procedures, scientific documentation, and monthly progress reports.
Present research findings during laboratory meetings, technical discussions, and scientific conferences, as required.
Perform other duties as assigned.