Lead Bioinformatician - Genomics Research

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Health and dental coverage

Pension plan

Paid annual leave

Conference attendance

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Bioinformatician for our client in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will spearhead analyses of large-scale genomic datasets, design scalable pipelines, and mentor a team of bioinformaticians while collaborating with molecular biologists, geneticists, and clinicians.

The role demands a PhD with 8+ years in bioinformatics, leadership experience, and strong programming skills across Python, R, and Perl.

Qualifications

• PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Statistics, or related quantitative field.
• Excellent record of publications in leading bioinformatics/genetics journals.
• Strong communication and collaboration across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of complex bioinformatics analyses for NGS data including whole-genome, exome, and RNA-Seq.
• Develop and optimize scalable bioinformatics pipelines for variant calling, gene expression analysis, and pathway enrichment.
• Apply statistical genetics and machine learning methods for interpretation and discovery.
• Collaborate with researchers and clinicians to define project requirements and interpret findings.
• Manage and curate large biological databases ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
• Mentor junior bioinformaticians and foster a collaborative team environment.
• Stay current with latest bioinformatics tools, algorithms, and genomic technologies.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and external conferences.
• Contribute to grant writing and manuscript preparation.

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of genetic research and discovery, seeking a highly skilled Lead Bioinformatician to spearhead critical projects in their state-of-the-art laboratory in Pretoria, Gauteng . This pivotal role involves developing and implementing advanced computational strategies to analyze large-scale genomic datasets, contributing significantly to our understanding of complex biological systems and diseases. You will lead a team of talented bioinformaticians and collaborate closely with molecular biologists, geneticists, and clinicians to translate genomic data into actionable insights. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of bioinformatics pipelines, statistical genetics, and machine learning techniques applied to biological data. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a profound impact on scientific advancement and human health within a collaborative and innovative research setting located in Pretoria .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of complex bioinformatics analyses for next-generation sequencing (NGS) data, including whole-genome, exome, and RNA-Seq.
• Develop and optimize scalable bioinformatics pipelines for variant calling, gene expression analysis, and pathway enrichment.
• Implement and apply statistical and machine learning methods for genomic data interpretation and discovery.
• Collaborate with research scientists and clinicians to define project requirements and interpret biological findings.
• Manage and curate large biological databases, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
• Mentor and guide junior bioinformaticians, fostering a collaborative and productive team environment.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in bioinformatics tools, algorithms, and genomic technologies.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences.
• Contribute to grant writing and manuscript preparation.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in bioinformatics, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive experience with various NGS data types and associated analysis pipelines.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, and Perl, along with experience in shell scripting.
• Strong knowledge of statistical genetics, population genetics, and machine learning principles.
• Experience with high-performance computing environments and cloud computing platforms.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex bioinformatics projects from inception to completion.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate across disciplines.
• Track record of publications in leading bioinformatics and genetics journals.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including a substantial annual bonus.
• Our client provides an exceptional benefits package, featuring comprehensive health and dental coverage, a generous pension plan, and ample paid annual leave.
• We are committed to supporting your professional growth through opportunities for further training, attendance at international conferences, and internal knowledge-sharing sessions.
• The work environment in Pretoria is dynamic, supportive, and focused on cutting-edge scientific achievement.
• Join a team dedicated to unlocking the secrets of the genome and improving lives.