JOB DESCRIPTION

The role of Senior Scientist/Associate Director Bioinformatics will report to the Head of Immunology and Data Science and work closely with the entire research organization to support the successful development of our clinical stage assets and advancement of preclinical programs.  We are actively seeking a bioinformatics expert with experience in multi-modal data analysis to support research efforts across the organization. 

The ideal candidate works collaboratively, is detail-oriented, creative, self-motivated, has a strong background in cancer biology, computational biology, statistics, machine learning, or a related field, and has experience working in cross-functional teams.      

Volastra is a fast-paced biotech company of passionate employees, and there is ample opportunity for the ideal candidate to grow and develop within the organization.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Use relevant and robust analytical methodologies to uncover, interpret, and validate insights into preclinical and clinical programs using complex biological datasets encompassing genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, imaging, and other data types to inform target identification, biomarkers, and patient selection strategies  
• Critically assess and clearly communicate strengths, limitations and caveats of specific datasets to ensure high quality research and appropriate data interpretation
• Work directly with scientists to optimize experimental designs to fulfill statistical and data science needs.
• Clearly and comprehensively document and communicate research findings to internal teams, scientific leadership and other key stakeholders
• Contribute to building a team and culture that embraces scientific excellence and integrity with a sense of collaboration both internally and externally  

QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD or Master’s degree in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related discipline, with a strong foundation in cancer biology and/or immune-oncology
• At least 3-5 years of post-graduate experience in a bioinformatics role, preferably with a focus on oncology or immune-oncology
• Fluency in programming and tools relevant to bioinformatics and statistical analysis (e.g. Python, R), and experience with machine learning and cancer-related datasets (e.g. GDC, TCGA, DepMap)
• Exceptional analytical skills and the ability to manage complex projects involving multi-dimensional data
• Direct experience with genome sequencing analysis methods and experimental design, including next-generation sequencing and array-based platforms
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with proven experience in making complex data and analyses accessible across diverse audiences
• Experience working with cloud computing environments such as AWS and Databricks
• A track record of peer-reviewed publications in relevant fields would be advantageous

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Familiarity with best practices for software development (e.g. code review, version control)
• Direct experience developing, validating and deploying genomic and/or transcriptomic analysis pipelines
• Prior experience generating biological insights from statistical analyses of imaging data

Volastra is a team of dedicated individuals working to advance therapies for patients with cancer.  As such, individuals will from time to time have the opportunity to work on projects and take on responsibilities that may fall outside his/her scope of work. Job is based in NYC with a flexible option for hybrid work.

SALARY RANGE

Approximately $140,000- $195,000 which may vary depending on qualifications, experience, and ultimate leveling