Senior Research Scientist - Computational Genomics

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Professional development

Flexible schedule

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24, a leading bio-innovation firm in Johannesburg, seeks a Senior Research Scientist to spearhead computations in genomics and to translate insights into scientific breakthroughs.

You will collaborate with data scientists and wet-lab teams, contribute to novel pipelines, publish research, and mentor colleagues while ensuring data integrity and reproducibility using Python/R/Perl, HPC, and cloud platforms.

Qualifications

• PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, genetics, computer science, or related quantitative field.
• Minimum 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in computational genomics or a closely related area.
• Proficiency in Python, R, and/or Perl, with experience in relevant bioinformatics libraries.
• Expertise in statistical genetics, population genetics, and machine learning applied to biological data.
• Experience with WGS, WES, RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq and related genomic data types.
• Familiarity with HPC environments and cloud computing platforms.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for multidisciplinary teamwork.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced algorithms for analysis of large-scale genomic datasets, including NGS data.
• Design computational experiments to identify genetic variants linked to complex diseases and traits.
• Collaborate with wet-lab biologists and clinicians to integrate computational findings with experimental data.
• Contribute to development of novel bioinformatics pipelines and software tools.
• Stay updated on genomics, bioinformatics, and machine learning developments.
• Mentor junior researchers and guide research projects.
• Prepare and present findings at internal meetings and conferences.
• Ensure data integrity and reproducibility across analyses.

Skills

Python/R/Perl

Statistical genetics

Machine learning

Genomics data types

Education

PhD in Bioinformatics/Computational Biology

Tools

High-performance computing

Cloud computing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading bio-innovation firm based in Johannesburg, Gauteng , is seeking an exceptional Senior Research Scientist to spearhead advancements in computational genomics. This role is pivotal in driving forward our understanding of complex genetic data and translating these insights into tangible scientific breakthroughs. You will be joining a dynamic team of researchers and data scientists dedicated to pushing the boundaries of genomic research. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of bioinformatics tools, statistical genetics, and machine learning applications within a biological context. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced algorithms for the analysis of large-scale genomic datasets, including next-generation sequencing data.
• Design and conduct computational experiments to identify genetic variants associated with complex diseases and traits.
• Collaborate with wet-lab biologists and clinicians to integrate computational findings with experimental data and clinical observations.
• Contribute to the development of novel bioinformatics pipelines and software tools to support genomic research.
• Stay abreast of the latest developments in genomics, bioinformatics, and machine learning.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the scientific direction of research projects.
• Prepare and present research findings at internal meetings and external scientific conferences.
• Ensure data integrity and reproducibility in all analytical workflows.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Genetics, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in computational genomics or a closely related area.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, and/or Perl, and experience with relevant bioinformatics libraries.
• Demonstrated expertise in statistical genetics, population genetics, and machine learning techniques applied to biological data.
• Experience with various genomic data types (e.g., WGS, WES, RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq).
• Familiarity with high-performance computing environments and cloud computing platforms.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• We provide a robust retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Professional development is actively encouraged through opportunities for further training, conference attendance, and publication support.
• A supportive work environment fosters work-life balance, with flexible working arrangements and paid time off.
• Employees have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and cutting-edge technologies.
• The Johannesburg, Gauteng location provides a vibrant urban experience with access to numerous amenities and cultural activities.
• This is an exceptional chance to advance your career in a world-class research setting.