Computational Researcher

This role will perform analyses using existing, modified or newly developed tools/methods. Set up tools and troubleshoot analyses using new or modified techniques.

A Computational Researcher position is available in the Patel laboratory (Departments of Oncology and Developmental Neurobiology). The candidate will join a team focused on investigating the dynamics of intratumoral heterogeneity in rhabdomyosarcoma, a pediatric solid tumor. We have multiple projects focused on a variety of scientific questions in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma, including efforts to map the molecular drivers of self-renewal in persistent progenitor cells, the role of lineage plasticity in fusion-positive rhabdomyosarcoma, and the testing of targeted combination therapy to prevent rhabdomyosarcoma recurrence. The Patel lab is a multidisciplinary team, and we use a combination of single-cell sequencing, patient-derived models of cancer, and computational biology to model tumor biology.

Experience in computer programming, with the R and/or python programming language is desirable. Candidates with experience in analysis of genomic or spatial data would be highly competitive, though no experience is required.

The candidate should have a strong background in bioinformatics or data science. Candidates must have a Bachelor’s degree in Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Computer Science, or related field with 2+ years of relevant experience (OR) entry-level Master's degree in Computer Science or Bioinformatics, with a background in the biological sciences. Candidates must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, be open to developing new and cutting-edge methods, and be highly motivated.

Job Responsibilities:

• Perform data analysis independently using established techniques/methods.

• Set up tools and troubleshoot analyses using new or modified techniques.

• Accurately record/document/share code.

• Prepare and report results/ data leading to posters, presentations, or publications.

• Performs other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and institution.

• Maintains regular and predictable attendance.

Minimum Education and/or Training:

• Bachelor's in Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Computer Science, or related field

• Master’s degree preferred.

Minimum Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree and 2+ years of relevant experience.

• No experience required with master’s degree.

Special Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

• Ability to analyze, debug, tune, optimize and port scientific application codes on HPC

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to analyze, categorize and translate scientific research requirements to functional and operational requirements.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to facilitate and elicit work meetings/sessions, ask the right questions, actively listen and take in new information.

• Excellent presentation skills for demo and user training, writing skills for user documentations.

• Self-motivated, independent and possess the ability to learn quickly.

• Teaching skills in both individual and group settings.

• Ability to deal with groups and conduct meetings.

• Ability to work in a fast paced and rapidly changing environment, must be flexible

• Ability to deal with confrontation and change in a professional and productive manner.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has a diverse, global patient population and workforce, built on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our founder Danny Thomas envisioned a hospital that would treat children of the world—regardless of race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. Learn more about our history and commitment.

Today, we continue the mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. As we accelerate this progress globally, we believe our legacy of diversity, equity and inclusion is foundational to success. With the commitment of leaders at all levels of the organization, we strive to ensure the St. Jude culture, leadership approaches and talent processes are equitable and culturally responsive. View our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report to learn about the hospital’s roots in diversity, equity and inclusion, where we are today and our aspirations for an even better future.

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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