Research Prime

Research Programmer – Bioinformatics

Organisation Name: BC Cancer Research Institute
Organisation Type:
City:
State:
Country: Canada

Job Description:

Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC)

Today’s Research. Tomorrow’s Medicine.

The GSC is a department of the BC Cancer Research Institute and a high-throughput genome sequencing facility. We are leaders in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics in pursuit of novel treatment strategies for cancers and other diseases.

Among the world’s first genome centres to be established within a cancer clinic, for more than two decades our scientists and innovators have been designing and deploying cutting-edge technologies to benefit health and advance clinical research.

Among the GSC’s most significant accomplishments are the first publication to demonstrate the use of whole-genome sequencing to inform cancer treatment planning, the first published sequence of the SARS coronavirus genome and major contributions to the first physical map of the human genome as part of the Human Genome Project.

By joining the GSC you will become part of an exceptional and diverse team of scientists, clinicians, experts and professionals operating at the leading edge of clinical research. We look for people who share our core values—science, timeliness, respect—to join us on our mission to use genome science for the betterment of health and society.

Summary

Job Reference Number: RP_R0008_Steif Lab_2023_02_23

We are looking for an outstanding research programmer with experience developing and applying computational workflows for high-throughput sequencing data analysis to join Dr. Adi Steif’s cancer genomics research group in Vancouver, Canada.

The successful applicant will be part of an exceptional multidisciplinary team of bioinformatic scientists and trainees, working alongside collaborators in biomedical engineering and molecular biology at the University of British Columbia. By joining the Steif Lab, you will help advance genomic technology alongside highly motivated specialists in a creative and dynamic environment. You will have access to robust high performance computing infrastructure and unique and complex single cell sequencing datasets, all while living in one of the most beautiful, diverse and eclectic cities in the world.

We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits and significant career development opportunities.

Responsibilities

Working in a multidisciplinary team, the research programmer will develop and maintain analytical workflows for high-throughput cancer genomics. This is a one-year term appointment, with potential for renewal. Responsibilities include:

  • Design and implement robust computational workflows
  • Thoroughly test and maintain high-quality, well-documented code
  • Regularly review the scientific literature to ensure analysis is in line with best practices
  • Contribute to data preprocessing and quality control
  • Develop data visualizations and contribute to biological analysis and interpretation
  • Regularly update Dr. Steif, group members and collaborators on the status of projects
  • Participate in and present research updates at lab meetings and team meetings
  • Contribute to scientific writing, including the preparation of research manuscripts and grant applications
  • May be involved in the management and supervision of trainees

Qualifications

  • A B.Sc. or M.Sc. in bioinformatics, computer science, statistics or related discipline
  • At least 3 years of experience in bioinformatics
  • Experience in genomics and high-throughput sequencing data analysis
  • Experience in cancer research is an asset
  • Programming fluency in Python or R
  • Experience working in a Unix/Linux computing environment
  • Critical thinking and attention to detail
  • Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and in a collaborative interdisciplinary team
  • A strong work ethic, with demonstrated ability to manage time and prioritize to meet deadlines

Benefits

Every PHSA employee enables the best possible patient care for our patients and their families. Whether you are providing direct care, conducting research, or making it possible for others to do their work, you impact the lives of British Columbians today and in the future. That’s why we’re focused on your care too – offering health, wellness, development programs to support you – at work and at home.

  • Join one of BC’s largest employers with province-wide programs, services and operations – offering vast opportunities for growth, development, and recognition programs that honour the commitment and contribution of all employees.
  • Access to professional development opportunities through our in-house training programs, including +2,000 courses, such as our San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training course, or Core Linx for Leadership roles.
  • Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, which includes statutory benefits - Canada Pension Plan, Employment Insurance and WorkSafe BC plus the BC Cancer group benefits plan which includes medical & dental extended health, and group life insurance coverage, and psychological health & safety programs and holistic wellness resources.
  • Annual statutory holidays (13) with generous vacation entitlement and accruement.
  • PHSA is a remote work friendly employer, welcoming flexible work options to support our people (eligibility may vary, depending on position).
  • Access to WorkPerks, a premium discount program offering a wide range of local and national discounts on electronics, entertainment, dining, travel, wellness, apparel, and more.

Job Type: 

Regular, Full-Time, 7.5 hrs. per day

Salary Range: 

$65,884 - $94,709 p.a.. The starting salary for this position would be determined with consideration of the successful candidate’s relevant education and experience, and would be in alignment with the provincial compensation reference plan.  

Application

Applicants should submit: a CV; a one-page cover letter explaining how your research experience, interests and career goals align with the position; and the names and contact details of three references to bcgscjobs@bcgsc.ca, using Job Reference No: RP_R0008_Steif Lab_2023_02_23 in the subject line of your email.

While we value and review all applications, please note that due to the volume of submissions only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This posting will remain online until the position is filled.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

Important!

As per the current Public Health Order, full vaccination against COVID-19 is a condition of employment with PHSA as of October 26, 2021.

Please note all jobs at the GSC are based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Flexible work options are available for this position upon request and is subject to change in accordance with GSC’s operational needs and PHSA’s Flexible Work Options Policy.

We believe that equity, diversity and inclusivity are essential for the advancement of human knowledge and science.

We welcome all applicants and provide all employees with equal opportunity for advancement, regardless of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offence unrelated to their employment.


Posting Date: Nov 17, 2023
Closing Date:
Organisation Website/Careers Page: https://www.bcgsc.ca/careers/research-programmer-bioinformatics


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