Remote Lead Bioinformatician - Genomics Data Analysis

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Professional development opportunities

Remote-first environment

Flexible work location

Job summary

Placements24's client, a cutting-edge biotechnology company, seeks a Lead Bioinformatician to spearhead genomics data analysis in a fully remote role. You will design scalable pipelines, manage large datasets, and guide a talented team of bioinformaticians across projects.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or equivalent, with 7+ years in genomics and proven leadership. Experience with AWS/GCP, Docker/Singularity, and Bioconductor is required.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s in a quantitative field with focus on bioinformatics.
• Minimum 7 years of progressively responsible experience in bioinformatics, with genomics data focus.
• Proven leadership experience managing bioinformatics projects or teams.
• Strong programming in Python/R/Perl and Bioconductor, GATK, samtools.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS/GCP/Azure) and Docker/Singularity.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of scalable bioinformatics pipelines for large-scale genomic/transcriptomic data (WGS/WES/RNA-Seq).
• Manage and curate complex biological datasets ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
• Apply advanced statistical and ML methods for variant calling, assembly, differential expression, and pathway analysis.
• Collaborate with researchers and clinicians to define questions and interpret results.
• Supervise and mentor a team of bioinformaticians in a remote environment.
• Ensure quality, reproducibility, and documentation of analyses and tools.
• Stay updated on bioinformatics advances and tools; communicate findings to stakeholders.
• Contribute to publications and presentations.

Skills

Python

R

Perl

Leadership

Team management

Cloud computing

Machine learning

Statistics

Data visualization

Remote collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Bioinformatics

Master's in Bioinformatics

Tools

Bioconductor

GATK

Samtools

Docker

Singularity

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge biotechnology firm focused on personalized medicine, is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Lead Bioinformatician to spearhead their genomics data analysis efforts. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to leverage your expertise from anywhere in the world. You will be responsible for developing and implementing advanced bioinformatics pipelines, managing large-scale genomic datasets, and leading a team of talented bioinformaticians. The role involves close collaboration with researchers, clinicians, and data scientists to interpret complex genomic data, identify disease biomarkers, and contribute to the development of targeted therapies. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in computational biology, genomics, statistical analysis, and software development, along with proven leadership capabilities. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of genomics analysis in a dynamic, remote-first environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of scalable bioinformatics pipelines for analyzing large-scale genomic and transcriptomic data (e.g., WGS, WES, RNA-Seq).
• Manage and curate complex biological datasets, ensuring data integrity and accessibility.
• Develop and apply advanced statistical and machine learning methods for variant calling, genome assembly, differential expression analysis, and pathway analysis.
• Collaborate with experimental biologists and clinicians to define research questions and interpret results.
• Supervise, mentor, and guide a team of bioinformaticians, fostering a collaborative and productive remote work environment.
• Ensure the quality, reproducibility, and documentation of all bioinformatics analyses and software tools.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in bioinformatics, genomics technologies, and computational tools.
• Communicate complex findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Contribute to scientific publications and presentations.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in bioinformatics, with a significant focus on genomics data analysis.
• Proven experience leading bioinformatics projects and/or managing a team of bioinformaticians.
• Expertise in programming languages such as Python, R, and/or Perl, and proficiency with relevant bioinformatics libraries and tools (e.g., Bioconductor, GATK, samtools).
• Strong understanding of statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization techniques.
• Hands-on experience with cloud computing platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure) and containerization technologies (Docker, Singularity).
• Excellent understanding of molecular biology, genetics, and genomics.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently in a remote setting.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

As a key member of our remote team, you will receive a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for professional development. Our client fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, providing the tools and support needed for success. This role offers unparalleled flexibility and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research in personalized medicine from your chosen location. We are committed to work-life balance and provide resources to support your well-being. Opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement are readily available. Join a forward-thinking company making a real difference in healthcare.