Bioinformatics Data Analyst (Yumul) at J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI) in La Jolla, California

Job Description:

Position Summary:

This position is responsible for preparation, maintenance, curation, and analysis of data from genome sequencing projects, microarray experiments, and other projects that generate genomic data. Works independently to establish and monitor project goals and develop requirements for tools and process improvements. Acts as a mentor for Bioinformatics Analyst I’s and II’s.

Position Responsibilities:

• Production annotation activities including: adding information to basic genomic and proteomic data; ensuring consistency and quality of data. Examples may include:

• Gene structure annotation.


• Microarray analysis.


• Gene function annotation.

• Analysis and synthesis activities including; interpreting and analyzing biological information; performing tasks to reduce and consolidate output from software; preparing data and reports for utilization by other scientists. Examples may include:
  
  
  • Data mining and analysis including using various internal resources, public databases and publications including microarray and proteomics platforms.
  
  
  • Maintaining knowledge of appropriate scientific literature.
  
  
  • Performing statistical analysis.
  
  
  • Performing comparative analysis.
  
  
  • Ability to execute and/or use microarray analysis tools (both RNA expression and CGH), proteomics – databases, 2D-gel mass-specctrometry related software and statistical programs.
  
  
  • Ability to present scientific data in a professional manner, either verbally or written, to internal and external audiences.
  
  
  
  


• Public resource development including: integrating genomic data with external data sources to facilitate the sharing of genomic and proteomic data with the community. Examples may include:
  
  
  • Collecting and curating primary data.
  
  
  • Creating and populating database tables and/or websites.
  
  
  • Integrating data into a database or a larger project.
  
  
  • Developing visualization tools or web resources.
  
  
  • Setting design goals and data presentation strategies.
  
  
  
  


• Tool Maintenance and development including: running and/or maintaining existing tools and pipelines; configuring and implementing basic pipelines; ensuring tools are up to date and functioning in a changing work environment. Examples may include:
  
  
  • Writing SOPs and documenting processes.
  
  
  • Configuring pipelines.
  
  
  • Testing and evaluating the output of changes in new tools.
  
  
  • Scripting in support of quality control, web and pipeline.
  
  
  • Recognizing ways to improve processes and keeping aware of the latest technology and literature.
  
  
  
  


• Training
  
  
  • Availability for one-on-one training for JCVI staff.
  
  
  • Creating and presenting training documentation and presentations.
  
  
  • Developing a technical training specialty based on project needs.
  
  
  
  


• Database and data management including: understanding the structure and biological content of the database; querying and assessing large data sets; populating and preparing data sets for public release; performing SQL queries. Examples may include:
  
  
  • Monitoring new data from public databases, finding and loading missed sequences, cleaning loaded data to satisfy quality control criteria.
  
  
  • Performing database queries and/or writing routine scripts to identify consistency problems.
  
  
  • Understanding database structure and recognizing and reporting problems with the data management process; fixing problems whenever possible.
  
  
  
  


• Project Management including: maintaining up-to-date knowledge of project status and project plans.
  
  
  • Managing quality control.
  
  
  • Distributing tasks to other members of the working group.
  
  
  • Coordinating project goals and timeframes with PI’s.
  
  
  • Distributing data and materials to PI, collaborators or public databases.
  
  
  • Working directly with collaborators to establish project parameters
  
  
  
  


• Performs other related duties as assigned.


• Strictly adheres to all documented JCVI policies and procedures to include carrying out all functions required of Institute employees (i.e. completion of timesheets and effort surveys in an accurate and timely manner).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

• Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. degree in the Biological Sciences in addition to at least five years experience performing duties similar to the above required.

• Proficiency working with computers in the field of biological sciences performing duties similar to those above.

• Thorough knowledge of Sybase, SQL, and the Unix operating system.

• Expert knowledge of molecular biology as it relates to DNA sequencing and genomics.

• Ability to learn additional computer skills quickly.

• Excellent analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills.

• Excellent organization and time management skills and ability to meet schedules.

• Flexibility to handle a variety of tasks and shift priorities simultaneously.

• Strong interpersonal skills; ability to effectively interact with all levels of staff and external contacts; ability to work as an effective team member.

• Cooperative and service-oriented attitude; must be able to work under pressure and maintain a professional demeanor.

• Ability to use sound judgment to effectively solve problems within the scope of the position.

• High level of initiative and ability to work with minimum supervision.

• Superior verbal and written communications skills.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those a teammate encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Moderate noise (i.e. business office with computers, phone, and printers, light traffic)


• Ability to work in a confined area.


• Ability to sit at a computer terminal for an extended period of time.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to, stand, sit; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard reach, stoop kneel to install computer equipment


• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision requirements due to computer work


• Light to moderate lifting is required

J. Craig Venter Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status.

Apply Now