Research Scientist - Bioinformatics & Computational Biology

The multidisciplinary thyroid cancer research program in conjunction with Dr. Wenyi Wang's lab is looking for a research scientist to join our group. We have multiple projects focused on understanding the evolution and therapeutic vulnerabilities of thyroid cancers, particularly aggressive subtypes such as anaplastic thyroid cancer, which are difficult to treat. We have collected sequencing data (DNA and RNA) on rare thyroid tumors including anaplastic thyroid cancer, which is one of the largest in the world. Key responsibility of the research scientist include:

1. Perform quality control on DNA/RNA sequencing data
2. Analyze sequencing data to extract biological insights
3. Contribute to study design and protocol development to enable novel experimentation and method development
4. Collaborate between experimental, computational scientists, and clinicians
5. Work with the team to synthesize findings into measurable outcomes

Programming skills Analysis/programming of research data using the following programning platforms in R, Python, Linux/unix system, C/C++. Develops and optimizes scripts and protocols for analysis and reporting of DNA and RNA sequencing data.

Statistical analysis skills Statistical analysis of research data using the following statistical programs: Bioconductor R packages for gene expression, genetic and genomic data analysis. Data analysis of RNA-sequencing and DNA-sequencing data, including single-cell sequencing data. Compiles, analyzes, and reports data for a wide range of projects in the basic, translational, and clinical sciences including, but not limited to bioinformatics data. Prepares statistical considerations for basic experimental designs and carries out uncomplicated statistical analyses independently, but completes statistical responsibilities for more complex projects with supervision.

Biological interpretation Biological interpretation of analysis results in terms of expression and functional annotation of cancer genes, specifically in thyroid cancer.

PhD in one of the natural sciences or related field or Medical degree With PhD, no experience required. With Medical degree, two years of experience in experimental or scientific work. It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html