Computational Biologist Postdoctoral Scholar (Joint Genome Institute) - 84499
Department: JG-Joint Genome Institute

The Department of Energy (DOE) Joint Genome Institute (JGI) (a division of the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab) has an exciting opportunity available for a Computational Biologist Postdoctoral Scholar to participate in ongoing research in the Viral Dark Matter project. JGI has been instrumental in driving the characterization of Earth’s Virome towards a better understanding of its role in regulating microbial communities. We are looking for a talented, highly motivated candidate with a strong background in microbiology, virology, host-virus interactions, metagenomics. computational biology and bioinformatics to join our team. You will be expected to perform viral genomics research, with a strong emphasis on systems level characterization, analysis and understanding of soil virome from metagenomics & metatranscriptomic data. This role will work as part of the Prokaryotic Super Program and is expected to work independently, as well as contribute as a member of a dynamic, multidisciplinary team of biologists, bioinformaticians, computer scientists and software developers. You will report to the Prokaryotic Program head.

What You Will Do:
• Perform large scale analysis of viral genome sequence data, analyze metagenomics sequences, and perform comparative analyses.
• Contribute to research in the Viral Dark Matter project as part of a large multidisciplinary team.
• Interrogation and interpretation of soil microbial and viral metagenome and metatranscriptome datasets.
• Utilize scripting language(s) and apply standard bioinformatics tools and pipelines for the analysis of genomic and metagenomic data.
• Work in a high-performance computing environment and interact with a team of computer scientists, software developers and postdoctoral researchers to develop new methods and tools for large-scale metagenome data analysis.
• Perform comparative analysis across hundreds of metagenomic data and billions of genes.
• Develop statistical methods to compare different samples/communities.
• Prepare research results for publication and for presentations at scientific meetings.
• Application of standard bioinformatics tools for the analysis of genomic/metagenomic data.
• Design and implementation of new approaches for soil virome analysis.
• Publish in peer review journals and deliver scientific presentations at scientific meetings.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:
• Development of software for organization and handling of metagenomic data and automation of analytical procedures.
• Develop and present updates and reports at group meetings.
• Support the development of user interface for navigation and data comparisons across thousands of genomic/metagenomic samples.

What Is Required:
• Recent Ph.D. (within the last 4 years) in Bioinformatics, microbiology, virology, or a related discipline with training/experience in bioinformatics.
• Experience in any of the following areas: viral genomics, metagenomics, microbial ecology.
• Strong experience in analysis of microbial/viral genomes and metagenomes is essential with a proven track record in this area reflected in recent or pending publications.
• Strong experience with UNIX utilities and filesystems.
• Familiar with command line sequence analysis tools e.g. Last, Hmmer, Megahit, MetaSpades, etc.
• Strong experience in scripting tools in order to mine data files.
• Good experience with processing and analysis of genomic/metagenomic data.
• Good experience with using standard bioinformatics tools and databases.
• Knowledge of Biology/Biochemistry and understanding of key and complex biological concepts (genes, pathways, microbial phylogeny).
• Ability to independently carry out creative research with tenacity and of the highest quality standards.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct and perform collaborative research and effectively interact with a broad range of colleagues with tact and diplomacy.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and record-keeping skills with the ability to organize and present technical reports to collaborators, JGI staff, management, and sponsors.
• Demonstrated ability to accurately and eloquently represent and promote scientific projects to audiences of diverse technical backgrounds.

Additional Desired Qualifications:
• Experience programming in Python, Bash scripting and familiarity with Linux/Unix.
• Experience with the R statistical analysis platform.
• Experience with machine learning.

The posting shall remain open until the position is filled, however for full consideration, please apply by close of business on May 4, 2018.

Notes:
• This is a full time, 3 year, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 2 years paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
• Full-time, M-F, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• Salary will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work will be primarily performed at: DOE Joint Genome Institute (JGI) — 2800 Mitchell Dr., Walnut Creek, CA.

How To Apply
Apply directly online at http://50.73.55.13/counter.php?id=127538 and follow the on-line instructions to complete the application process.

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