Bioinformatics Research Analyst - Pathology & Immunology

Scheduled Hours40

Position SummaryWe are seeking an advanced bioinformatician to join our dynamic team, focusing on cutting-edge Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and AD-Related Dementias (ADRD) research. The candidate will lead bioinformatics support for complex single-cell and spatial transcriptomic analysis and be instrumental in developing innovative gene delivery tools for targeted brain cell analysis. This role requires deep expertise in computational methods for omics-based data, advanced cell-specific analytics, and collaboration across multi-disciplinary teams to drive high-impact research outcomes.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

Algorithm & Software Development

• Develop, implement, and optimize algorithms and software to analyze large-scale, high-dimensional omics datasets, including single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), spatial transcriptomics, and genomic data for targeted neurodegenerative research.

Data Integration & Analysis

• Lead data integration efforts, combining transcriptomic, epigenomic, and spatial data to elucidate gene expression patterns across diverse brain cell types and disease states, focusing on neurons, astrocytes, and microglia.

Server Maintenance and Management

• Manage and maintain the lab’s bioinformatics server to ensure smooth operation and availability for analysis tasks, data storage, and collaborative projects.

Computational Modeling

• Build predictive models using machine learning and AI, such as deep learning for promoter prediction, to drive targeted gene expression for specific brain cell subtypes.

Support in Hypothesis Development and Grant Writing

• Actively contribute to developing project hypotheses, experimental strategies, grant applications, and research proposals to support project funding and progression.

Comprehensive Reporting and Publication Support

• Document and present methods, data processing steps, and results for scientific publications, assisting in manuscript preparation and submission.

Working Conditions:
Job Location/Working Conditions

• Remote work or works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Normal office environment.

Physical Effort

• Typically sitting at desk or table.
• Repetitive wrist, hand or finger movement (PC Typing).

Equipment

• Office equipment.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications:

No specific certification is required for this position.

Work Experience:

Relevant Experience (2 Years)

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This JobWashington University seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

Master's degree, Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy

Certifications:

No additional certification beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Skills:

Ability to Reason, Analytical Thinking, Bioinformatics Tools, Communication, Complex Data Analysis, Computational Biology, Gene Expression Microarray, Genome Sequencing, Group Problem Solving, Human Genetics, Model Organism, Python (Programming Language), R Programming

GradeR09

Salary Range$43,888.00 - $75,600.00 / Annually

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment ScreeningAll external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO/AA StatementWashington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity StatementWashington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.