Part-Time Programmer Analysts

The Pennsylvania State University; Ferguson Township (PA); Remote; USD 34,000 - 62,000; Part time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking part‑time Programmer Analysts to support the Biomedical Data Translator project within the ARAX system. You will implement ML techniques, build Python wrappers for Translator API endpoints, and develop a modular weighting scheme for ranking results.

Requirements include a Master’s degree with 2+ years of related experience, strong Python and ML package experience (scikit-learn), and proficiency with Neo4j, REST APIs, and Git/GitHub.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a related field with 2+ years of related experience or equivalent
• Experience with Neo4j graph database
• Experience interacting with REST APIs
• 3+ years of Python programming and ML packages (e.g., scikit-learn)
• 3+ years of Git and GitHub usage
• Ability to work effectively with a remote, large multidisciplinary team
• Experience with biomedical ontologies/data sets and public databases

Responsibilities

• Implement statistical and machine learning techniques to augment ARAX graph edge properties
• Create modular Python wrappers to interface with Translator API endpoints and UI for data ingestion
• Implement automated thresholding of ARAX filtering components
• Develop modular, tunable weighting schemes for ranking ARAX results
• Train graph node embeddings and a random forest model on open biomedical data
• Maintain ARAX codebase to stay current with API and data-modeling updates
• Address ARAX code-base issues as assigned by faculty

Skills

Python

Scikit-learn

Interpersonal communication

Attention to detail

Education

Master’s degree in related field

Tools

Neo4j

REST APIs

Git & GitHub

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Department of Computer Science and Engineering is seeking part‑time Programmer Analysts to support an NIH National Center for Advancing Translational Science‑funded project called: “The Biomedical Data Translator.” (https://ncats.nih.gov/research/research-activities/translator) These programmers will develop the following components to be incorporated into the ARAX (https://github.com/RTXteam/RTX) system:

• Implement statistical and machine learning techniques to augment graph edge properties in ARAX;
• Create modular python wrappers to interface with NCATS (National Center for Advancing Translational Services) translator API (Application Programming Interface) endpoints (https://smart-api.info/registry) and UI (https://ui.transltr.io/) to allow ingestion of open access data into (and from) the ARAX system;
• Implement automated thresholding of ARAX filtering components;
• Create a modular, tunable weighting scheme for scoring and ranking of results to be returned by the ARAX system;
• Train a graph node embedding + random forest model on open access clinical and biomedical data to extend current capabilities for predicting the probability that a drug treats a disease;
• Maintain the ARAX code base to retain compliance with API and data standardization version updates as specified by the advisory, API, and data modeling committees;
• Address additional ARAX code‑base issues as they are identified and assigned by faculty member.

Requirements include:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Master’s degree plus two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Specific skills required are experience with the Neo4j graph database, interacting with REST APIs, more than three years’ experience with Python, and associated machine learning packages (such as Scikit learn)
• More than three years’ experience with Git and GitHub
• Ability to effectively work remotely with a large team of programmers and scientists
• Two years’ or more experience working with biomedical ontologies/data sets and publicly available databases

Pay and hours per week negotiable within funder restrictions.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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