Research Programmer I (1 YR- Fixed Term)

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

5d•$39 - $44•Hybrid

About The Position

The University of Southern California’s Gerontology Bioinformatics Core (GBC) seeks a Research Programmer I to provide programming and analytical support for interdisciplinary projects using large-scale human datasets and genomics data, including genotype, whole genome sequencing, DNA methylation, and gene expression data. The role calculates variables and runs analytical pipelines to support research on translational genomics, human aging, aging-related diseases, and longevity. The programmer works closely with core leaders and research collaborators to develop and implement coding approaches. The position offers opportunities to build advanced skills and contribute to projects spanning biological, computational, and genomic sciences. The programmer may participate in project development and report findings through grant applications and manuscripts, and will be encouraged to develop skills in analyzing genetic variation and the genetic architecture of aging-related diseases. Work may include large-scale genotyping and next-generation sequencing data from multiple population-based human cohorts. This is a non-exempt position with standard in-person hours of operation and a hybrid work schedule (on campus and remote). Weekend work may be required during emergencies only; no travel is required. The position is available for one year and may be renewed contingent on successful progress and available funding. Employment is contingent on the necessary research contract or grant funding. Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume.

Requirements

Master’s degree, or combined work experience and education equivalent.
At least 1 year of experience.
Prior experience with genomic analyses in human cohorts.
Demonstrated creativity and innovation in solving conceptual programming problems.
Competence working independently on complex programming.
Knowledge of programming and/or scripting languages such as R or Python.
High attention to detail, organization, and communication skills.
Applicants must attach a cover letter and resume.

Nice To Haves

MA/MS degree in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, quantitative social science, molecular genetics, or a related field, with experience using statistical genetics, translational genomics, or bioinformatics approaches for data analysis.
At least 2 years of coding experience with R or Python.
At least 2 years of experience analyzing human genomics data.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively on complex programming.
Experience with large, complex biological datasets.
Experience with high-performance computing.
Demonstrated experience analyzing genomic and next-generation sequencing data.
Good communication about technical and non-technical aspects of data analysis, tasks, and timelines.
Highly organized.
Deep understanding of high-performance computing, high-performance networking, and cloud computing.
Experience with large-scale, population-based datasets.
Advanced expertise in Linux/Unix systems and experience building, deploying, and maintaining open-source software in HPC environments.
Experience supporting computational research in a higher education or research institute setting, particularly for data-intensive scientific projects.
Knowledge of the research process, including proposal development, data lifecycle management, reproducible workflows, and compliance with federal and sponsor regulations for data safety and security.

Responsibilities

Develop and document robust computational workflows, testing procedures, and production pipelines that support multi-omics analyses for the Gerontology Bioinformatics Core.
Develop datasets, create tables, perform analyses, and participate in producing publications in collaboration with researchers.
Give online and in-person technical demonstrations.
Develop and run workflows using command-line tools and high-performance computing clusters.
Maintain currency with new technologies and industry knowledge, and continually develop skills, knowledge, and abilities.
Contribute to research projects through study design, prototype computational implementations, and preparation of technical reports, manuscripts, and grant proposals.
Apply creativity and innovation to computational challenges in geroscience research and identify opportunities to adapt methods and results to new scientific applications and future research directions.
Promote a collaborative and inclusive research environment consistent with USC’s Code of Ethics.
Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.