Research Computational Biologist (Postdoctoral Research Associate)

Research Computational Biologist (Postdoctoral Research Associate)

GS-11, $84,601–$109,975/year, up to 2 years full-time
(open until filled)

Research Project: The U.S. Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service (USDA ARS) mission involves problem-solving research in the widely diverse food and agricultural areas encompassing plant production and protection; animal production and protection; natural resources and sustainable agricultural systems; and nutrition; food safety; and quality. The programs are conducted in 46 of the 50 States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. For ARS to maintain its standing as a premier scientific organization, major investments in computing, networking, and storage infrastructure are required. Training in data and information management are integral to the integrity, security, and accessibility of research findings, results, and outcomes within the ARS research enterprise. Over 1000 scientists and support staff conduct research within the ARS research enterprise.

This position is located in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory, in Beltsville, MD.

Research will focus on development of bioinformatics and genomics tools to characterize the structure and function of the bovine genome and then application of those datasets to accelerate genetic improvement and discover genetic variation affecting economically important traits.

Major duties include but are not limited to:

Developing and customizing pipelines for automation of data processing required for discovering genetic (e.g., SNP, CNV) and epigenetic (e.g., DNA methylation) variations, as well as functional elements (e.g., enhancers and promoters) using short- and long-read sequencing in cattle.

Developing better statistical methods to improve association studies with QTL and enhancing genetic prediction tools for automation of data processing required for SNP use in livestock selection programs.

A Ph.D. degree in genetics, bioinformatics, computational biology, statistics, computer science, or a closely related field is required and must have been obtained no more than 4 years prior to appointment start date. Knowledge and understanding of genome assembly, population genetics, statistical genetics, complex trait mapping, and high throughput sequencing genome and programming proficiency in R, Python, Perl, C/C , Java, and SAS are highly desirable. Preference will be given to candidates with a strong publication record, evidence of substantial research productivity, and ability to communicate scientific information successfully.

Benefits include annual and sick leave, within-grade increases, health and life insurance, and retirement.

This position is open only to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or lawful permanent residents who meet the criteria outlined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)(B).

To apply, send your resume/CV, statement of interest, Ph.D. transcripts, 1-page dissertation abstract, and 2 references to:

Dr. George Liu
USDA-ARS-AGIL
10300 Baltimore Ave.
BARC-East
Beltsville, MD 20705-2350

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $84,601.00 - $109,975.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan

Application Question(s):

• This position is open ONLY to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or lawful permanent residents who meet the criteria outlined in 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)(B). Your Ph.D. degree must have been obtained no more than 4 years prior to appointment start date.

Education:

• Doctorate (Required)

Experience:

• Computer skills: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $84,601 - $109,975