Bioinformatics Analyst I - Genomics of Fusion Oncoproteins

Summary

The Eagen Lab at Baylor College of Medicine is seeking a Bioinformatics Analyst. This role involves identifying and implementing computational solutions to research problems related to how fusion oncoproteins regulate chromatin structure and gene expression. The successful candidate will apply state-of-the-art open-source software for basic and advanced analysis of next-generation sequencing data with an emphasis on epigenetics and transcriptomic datasets. This position offers the opportunity to develop advanced computational skills, publish research findings, and network with colleagues.

The Eagen Lab focuses on uncovering the mechanisms of DNA folding within cells and understanding how DNA misfolding contributes to human disease. One notable discovery from the lab is that the BRD4-NUT fusion oncoprotein alters DNA folding, creating a nuclear compartment and upregulating transcription. The lab’s research has been published in journals such as Molecular Cell, Nature Genetics, and Cancer Research. Additionally, their work has been recognized with awards from the NIH Director, the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), The Sontag Foundation, and The Welch Foundation.

The Eagen Lab conducts cutting-edge molecular research using interdisciplinary approaches and the latest technologies, while also promoting career development and advancement. Baylor College of Medicine, one of the nation’s top-ranked medical schools, is renowned for its exceptional, innovative, and collaborative research environment. The lab is situated in the Texas Medical Center, the world’s largest biomedical complex, right next to Houston’s vibrant Museum District and Hermann Park.

The ideal candidate should be highly motivated, well-organized, and capable of managing time effectively. They should be able to work independently as well as part of a team. This role offers fundamental, career-building exposure in bioinformatics, computational biology, and biostatistics as they develop scripts in languages such as Python and R while using Linux/Unix and high-performance computing (HPC) to analyze genomics data.

Job Duties

Manage and analyze Hi-C, Micro-C, Perturb-seq, CUT&RUN, and RNA-seq data.

Interpret results by applying and/or developing appropriate statistical and/or machine learning analysis for Hi-C, Micro-C, Perturb-seq, CUT&RUN, and RNA-seq data.

Collaborate with wet lab scientists to refine and integrate Hi-C, Micro-C, Perturb-seq, ChIP-seq, CUT&RUN, and RNA-seq analysis, including statistical tests.

Develop novel computational and visualization tools to further the analysis and interpretation of epigenetic and transcriptomic data.

Maintain detailed records of computational code and analyses.

Search and evaluate scientific literature in support of research projects.

Co-author scientific papers.

Effectively interact with team members to make important contributions on big problems while ensuring a high standard of scientific rigor.

Completes other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Genetics, Biology, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, or a related field.

No experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in a related field.

Demonstrated experience in Linux operating systems and SLURM cluster-based computing.

Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Shell Scripting, and R.

Demonstrated ability working with open-source bioinformatics software.

Experience analyzing Hi-C, CUT&RUN, ChIP-seq, or RNA-seq data.

A record of taking initiative to solve problems and working to high-quality standards demonstrated through previous research projects.

Attention to detail and accurate record keeping.

Ability to multitask, work and learn independently, and be self-motivated in a fast-paced research environment.

Baylor College of Medicine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer.