Computational Biologist

Computational Biologist - Genomic Sciences and Neurodegeneration

We are looking for a highly motivated and collaborative Computational Biologist to work on projects being developed by the laboratory of Drs. Rita Guerreiro and José Brás, in the Department of Neurodegenerative Science at the Van Andel Institute in Michigan (https://www.vai.org/).

The lab focuses on the role of human genetic variability in neurological diseases, using cutting-edge technologies and large-scale data analysis. Approaches include whole-genome genotyping, whole-exome sequencing, transcriptomic analyses in bulk and at single-cell level, as well as 'omics' data integration and data mining approaches for genetics and genomics.

The ideal candidate is an organized, detail-oriented individual who will be responsible for working with scientists to understand key areas of genetic involvement in neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's diseases.

Please visit our websites for an overview of our research and lab: https://guerreirolab.vai.org/;https://braslab.vai.org/.

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor or Master's degree in biology, mathematics, statistics, computer science, or other relevant scientific discipline.
• Demonstrable experience with R and/or Python languages.
• Demonstrable experience using and/or developing computational tools and software for bioinformatics applications.

Description of a Successful Candidate:

• Previous hands-on experience with genetic analysis is required.
• Superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Superior organizational skills, prioritization skills, time management skills, and meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to work well both independently and as a member of a team.
• Ability to follow instructions with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored.
• Ability to interact positively with all levels of staff.
• Ability to work efficiently, be adaptable, and be self-motivated.

Job Functions:

• Analyze data quality, critically review and analyze results, and communicate results to biologists, computational biologists, software engineers, and clinicians.
• Draft scientific papers
• Work closely with other computational and experimental scientists to conduct research.

Application Process:

Qualified applicants should provide a cover letter outlining research experience and interests, a curriculum vitae, and the names and contact details of three references, to Dr. Rita Guerreiro (rita.guerreiro@vai.org) and Dr. Jose Bras (jose.bras@vai.org).

If you possess these attributes and a desire to help us drive scientific discovery to better understand and have an impact in diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, while benefiting from a highly generous compensation package, we would welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply. Please contact Eric Miller (eric.miller@vai.org) for further information or questions, or if you have any difficulty with the application process.

VAI is actively striving to diversify its workforce and strongly encourages qualified individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. Van Andel Institute is an EEO and Affirmative Action Employer

About Grand Rapids, MI

Van Andel Research Institute is located in downtown Grand Rapids, MI which is the second largest city in Michigan and the largest city in West Michigan. Grand Rapids offers a remarkable combination of cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community, and is ranked one of "America's Top 100 Places to Live."

Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you would expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walk-able neighborhoods.
With a medical and life sciences industry boom, strong entrepreneurial activity, dedication to green building and living, and innovative employers, Grand Rapids' diverse economy continues to grow, offering endless career opportunities.

Required Skills

Required Experience