Principal Computational Biologist - Genomics

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24, a leading genomics research entity, seeks a Principal Computational Biologist in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will lead projects analyzing large-scale genomic and transcriptomic datasets, developing cutting-edge bioinformatics pipelines for NGS data and collaborating with clinicians to translate findings into actionable insights.

The role requires a Ph.D. with 7+ years of post-doctoral genomics experience, proficiency in Python/R/Perl, and strong HPC/cloud skills.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Computational Biology, Genomics, or related field.
• 7+ years of post-doctoral research experience focusing on genomics/NGS data analysis.
• Experience with WGS, WES, RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq.
• Proficiency in Python, R, or Perl and shell scripting.
• Experience with bioinformatics tools/databases: GATK, Samtools, BEDTools, Ensembl.
• Familiarity with HPC environments and cloud computing.
• Strong understanding of molecular biology, genetics, and statistics.
• Proven ability to lead research projects and mentor junior staff.
• Publications in high-impact journals is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of computational strategies for large-scale genomic datasets.
• Develop and maintain bioinformatics pipelines for NGS data processing.
• Analyze WGS, WES, RNA-Seq data and identify genetic variants.
• Collaborate with biologists to interpret results and design follow-up studies.
• Mentor junior computational biologists and bioinformaticians.
• Present findings at conferences and contribute to publications.
• Manage data resources ensuring data integrity, security, and accessibility.

Skills

Python

R

Perl

Shell scripting

Education

Ph.D. in Computational Biology

Tools

GATK

Samtools

BEDTools

Ensembl

HPC

Cloud

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading genomics research institute, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Computational Biologist to join their innovative team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This senior role will play a pivotal part in analyzing large-scale genomic datasets to drive biological discovery and understand disease mechanisms. You will lead projects involving the development and application of cutting-edge bioinformatics pipelines for next-generation sequencing (NGS) data.

The ideal candidate possesses a strong computational background, a deep understanding of genomics, and proven experience in managing complex research projects.

This position is based in our advanced research facility in Mossel Bay, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge genomic research in a beautiful coastal setting.

We foster a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment where scientific curiosity is paramount. You will work closely with molecular biologists, geneticists, and clinicians to translate genomic findings into actionable insights.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of computational strategies for analyzing large-scale genomic and transcriptomic datasets.
• Develop, optimize, and maintain robust bioinformatics pipelines for NGS data processing and analysis.
• Perform in-depth analysis of whole-genome sequencing, exome sequencing, and RNA-Seq data.
• Identify genetic variants, assess their functional impact, and associate them with phenotypes or disease states.
• Collaborate with experimental biologists to interpret results and design follow-up studies.
• Mentor and guide junior computational biologists and bioinformaticians.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in genomics, bioinformatics tools, and algorithms.
• Present findings at international conferences and contribute to publications in high-impact journals.
• Manage data resources, ensuring data integrity, security, and accessibility.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure funding for new research initiatives.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Genomics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-doctoral research experience with a strong focus on genomics and NGS data analysis.
• Expertise in analyzing various NGS data types (WGS, WES, RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or Perl, and experience with shell scripting.
• Strong experience with bioinformatics tools and databases (e.g., GATK, Samtools, BEDTools, Ensembl).
• Familiarity with high-performance computing (HPC) environments and cloud computing platforms.
• Solid understanding of molecular biology, genetics, and statistical principles.
• Proven ability to lead research projects and mentor junior staff.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with a track record of publications.
• Experience in population genetics or cancer genomics is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement plan with employer matching.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, training, and conference attendance.
• Access to cutting-edge computational infrastructure and large genomic datasets.
• A stimulating and collaborative research environment in a unique location.
• Paid time off, including generous annual leave.
• Potential for career advancement within a leading research institution.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.
• Opportunity to contribute to impactful scientific discoveries in human health.