Bioinformatician, Viral Genomics & Diagnostics

Primary.Health • San Francisco, CA

4d • Remote

About The Position

Primary.Health is seeking an experienced bioinformatician on a part-time retainer to analyze viral sequence data, track emerging variants, and advise on how genomic changes may affect diagnostic tests. The schedule is flexible, with faster turnaround occasionally needed during outbreaks or the emergence of new variants. The role is remote and reports to the Head of Strategic Initiatives.

The position is a 10-hour-per-week retainer, with additional hours billed at the agreed hourly rate. Compensation is $85.00–$100.00 per hour and may vary based on location, skills, qualifications, and experience. Primary.Health states that its compensation estimate is provided as required by state regulations and may be modified subject to applicable law.

Primary.Health is an equal opportunity workplace and does not discriminate on the listed protected grounds. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• At least 3 years of hands-on viral or pathogen genomics experience.
• Proficiency in Python and/or R.
• Proficiency with standard genomics tools such as Nextclade, Pangolin, and Nextstrain.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently on a part-time schedule.

Nice To Haves

• Experience evaluating molecular diagnostics against sequence variation.

Responsibilities

• Analyze viral genomes, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and RSV, to identify mutations, lineages, and variants of concern.
• Assess how sequence changes may affect assay performance, including primer and probe binding and sensitivity.
• Run and maintain reproducible pipelines for sequence alignment, variant calling, and lineage assignment.
• Clearly summarize findings for non-technical stakeholders.
• Monitor CDC, WHO, and GISAID surveillance and flag relevant developments.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level