Informatics Programmer Analyst

University of California - San Francisco; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of California - San Francisco is seeking a Programmer Analyst. This role focuses on data extraction, high-level analysis, and ensuring data integrity through various programming techniques. Key responsibilities include organizing and curating data sets, conducting sophisticated statistical analyses, and collaborating closely with researchers to enhance data interpretation.

The ideal candidate will have a strong educational background in biological sciences or related fields, alongside extensive experience in data manipulation and statistical modeling skills. Excellent communication and project management abilities are essential for success in this position.

Qualifications

• Three + years of experience with data manipulation and data quality control.
• Proficiency in programming with SAS, Python, R, or SQL.
• Experience working with large datasets greater than 50GB.

Responsibilities

• Independently analyzes complex information requirements.
• Develops logical and dimensional data models.
• Gathers and analyzes information for recommendations.

Skills

Data manipulation

Statistical analysis

SAS

Python

R

SQL

Bioinformatics

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological science or related area

Advanced degree in quantitative discipline (preferred)

Tools

ETL tools

Web development tools

Job description

The programmer analyst role includes the interpretation of complex requirements from detailed specifications to identify the correct fields for data extraction, applying analytical techniques for validation and cleaning, and preparation of data for in-depth analysis. This involves selecting appropriate patient cohorts, applying sophisticated programming strategies to configure data to researchers' specification, and confirming value meet researchers' expectations. The focus is on effectively managing and interpreting large volumes of data to derive meaningful insights. The programmer analyst will play a pivotal role in supporting researchers and Principal Investigators by employing analytical tools such as python, SQL, SAS, R, or Stata to work with electronic medical records and claims data. The ultimate aim is to provide a robust analytical foundation that supports research projects.

Key responsibilities include the meticulous organization and curation of data sets; executing sophisticated statistical analyses; and producing detailed reports, charts, tables, and figures that clearly convey the findings. The role might involve working closely with PhD Statisticians to apply complex statistical analysis to support the interpretation of results.

The programmer analyst will work closely with the lead investigators to refine data analysis based on feedback and ensure that the results are presented in a form that is ready for publication and dissemination.

Department Overview

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Department of Information Technology Academic Research Services (ARS) is chartered to provide data services and infrastructure that support clinical researchers computing and analytic needs. The Clinical Data Research Consultants group's services include the administration of Data Use Agreements for the reuse of CMS and Medicaid data, customized data extractions from UCSF health systems, a federated data steward program to support compliance and set best practice standards for analysts who access health system data outside of central IT.

Responsibilities

• 20%: Independently analyzes complex information requirements and documents them using formal data definition techniques and naming standards. Plans long-term statistical studies, including the preparation of proposals and design of datasets to be used for studies.
• 25%: Develops logical data models, dimensional data models, and schemas for the scope of a project or a component of a project. Develops data mapping specifications and extract-transform-load (ETL) designs.
• 20%: Gathers, analyzes, prepares and summarizes the collection of information and data, recommends statistical approaches, trends, sources and uses.
• 25%: Identifies multivariate strategies, prepares reports of studies for internal validation and cross validation studies, analyzes the interrelationships of data and defines logical aspects of data sets, and develops systems for organizing data to analyze, identify/report trends.
• 10%: Manages database of research data for projects and participates in development/implementation of data security policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological science, computational / programming, or related area and/or equivalent experience/training.
• Three + years of experience with data manipulation and data quality control
• Three + years of experience in statistical analysis and modeling
• Proficiency and programming experience in SAS, Python, R, or SQL
• Experience working with large (>50Gb) datasets
• Experience working with electronic medical/health services data (e.g., SEER/EPIC/claims data)
• Experience in a research environment
• Thorough knowledge of bioinformatics methods, applications programming, web development, and data structures.
• Thorough knowledge of bioinformatics programming design, modification, and implementation.
• Understanding of relational databases, web interfaces, and operating systems.
• Thorough knowledge of web, application, and data security concepts and methods.
• Research skills at a level to evaluate alternative solutions and develop recommendations
• Strong project management skills.
• Communication skills to work with both technical and non-technical personnel in multiple fields of expertise and at various levels in the organization.
• Ability to communicate technical information in a clear and concise manner.
• Ability to interface with management on a regular basis.
• Self-motivated, work independently or as part of a team, able to learn quickly, meet deadlines, and demonstrate problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of modern biology and the applicable field of research.
• Advanced degree in quantitative discipline and/or equivalent experience/training