Bioinformatics Computing Consultant

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Joint Genome Institute (JGI), a DOE Office of Science User Facility located at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) has an opening for a Bioinformatics Computing Consultant to join the team. In this exciting role, you will work as part of the Data Science and Informatics Department’s Advanced Analysis Group. 

The successful candidate will be responsible for enhancing the scientific productivity of users through problem management; code and workflow optimization, debugging and scaling; strategic project support; documentation; training; third-party applications and library support; resource and workload analysis; user communication and requirements gathering. You will also play a key role in establishing JGI’s computing strategy through evaluating and recommending high-end computing technology and software.

You will work with other groups, scientists, and vendors to develop innovative solutions that resolve user requirements. Using a unique set of knowledge, skills, and experience, you will help research, evaluate, and develop new software infrastructure and analysis tools to support JGI’s mission of accelerating scientific discovery through the production of high-quality data, as well as platforms to enable data analysis at scale.

What You Will Do:

• Provide technical guidance and courteous consulting services to the users and staff at the DOE JGI.
• Develop solutions for complex user problems and provide one-on-one code debugging, optimization, and porting help.  Resolve and manage consulting questions in a timely manner and follow up on longer-term problems working with vendors, partners, and other JGI staff to implement solutions. Convey user feedback and concerns to other JGI staff. 
• Educate and train users by creating content for the JGI docs website with online tutorials and documentation, giving presentations, and attending conferences. Communicate with users about new opportunities and capabilities in software and systems and advise them in effectively transitioning to new technologies.
• Keep abreast of developments and research in the bioinformatics and high-performance scientific computing field, writing technical papers as appropriate.
• Work independently and as part of the Data Science and Informatics Department to diagnose problems with scientific workflows, collect information on system performance, and educate users on best practices.
• Engage in User-centered design practices to ensure software infrastructure meets the needs of the scientific community.
• Be part of a team that provides high-quality support to the scientific community.

What is Required:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Computational Science, Applied Sciences, or equivalent experience with a minimum of 8 years of related experience.
• Experience with shell/PERL/Python application programming.
• Experience with workflow management systems and data-intensive computing.
• Strong technical and collaboration skills to create and deploy innovative ways of allowing our diverse user base to effectively utilize the unique data resources that JGI provides.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in large projects and contribute to an active intellectual environment.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Understand user needs and show initiative, tact, and good judgment in developing solutions to problems.

Notes:

• This is a full time 2 year term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• This position will be hired at a level commensurate with the business needs; and skills, knowledge, and abilities of the successful candidate.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• ​We offer a flexible schedule and hybrid work. The primary location for this role is Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Based on University of California Policy - SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program and U.S Federal Government requirements, Berkeley Lab requires that all members of our community obtain the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are eligible. As a condition of employment at Berkeley Lab, all Covered Individuals must Participate in the COVID-19 Vaccination Program by providing proof of Full Vaccination or submitting a request for Exception or Deferral. Visit covid.lbl.gov for more information.

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

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