Bioinformaticist Research Scientist (Joint Genome Institute)

LBL • $110K — $154K *
San Francisco, CA 94112In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
1 week ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 2+ years of bioinformatics research experience, particularly in phylogenetics and comparative genomics
  • Experience in analyzing microbial and plant genomes with a solid publication record
  • Proficiency in developing scalable workflows for high-throughput genomic data
  • Strong programming skills in Python for biological data analysis
  • Excellent supervisory skills with a focus on mentoring and performance management
  • Exceptional organizational skills for managing technical reports and presentations
  • Strong communications skills, both oral and written, for dissemination of research

Responsibilities

  • Develop computational methods for genomic analysis and functional prediction
  • Build accessible atlases of genomic and related data for community use
  • Integrate AI-enabled tools into bioinformatics workflows
  • Analyze large genomic datasets to uncover molecular mechanisms
  • Collaborate with the BioMolecular Materials Group on research projects
  • Present research findings at conferences and workshops
  • Mentor junior researchers and foster an inclusive research environment
  • Recruit and develop talent within the research team
  • Secure external funding through competitive proposals

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, a leading research institution
  • Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources
  • Collaboration with esteemed scientists and researchers in the field
  • Potential for extended appointment based on performance and funding
  • Contributions to critical research areas such as environmental and biological sciences
Full Job Description
The Bioinformaticist Research Scientist in the Joint Genome Institute (JGI) will join the BioMolecular Materials Group to provide bioinformatics expertise for the joint user program with the Molecular Foundry. The role includes collaborating with users on project development and awarded projects, advancing external partnerships aligned with the U.S. Department of Energy's Biological and Environmental Research (BER) mission, and developing computational approaches to support research in critical minerals and materials, programmable living materials, and quantum genomics. The scientist will also build scalable bioinformatics workflows and help advance research integrating genomics with AI/ML, materials science, and emerging national priorities.

You will:
  • Develop computational methods for cross-kingdom comparative genomics, functional prediction, and co-expression analysis.
  • Build community-accessible atlases integrating genomic, structural, functional, and regulatory data.
  • Evaluate and integrate AI-enabled tools and agents into scalable bioinformatics workflows and the Data Lakehouse platform.
  • Perform large-scale genomic data analysis, develop strategies to uncover genome-based molecular mechanisms, and publish findings in collaboration with users and partners.
  • Collaborate with the BioMolecular Materials Group and external users to support research projects.
  • Present research at scientific conferences, workshops, and meetings.
  • Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a collaborative, inclusive, and safety-focused research environment.
  • Supporting growth of the research team by recruiting talent, directing daily work, setting performance expectations, and supporting professional growth.
  • Identify, develop, and secure external funding through competitive grant proposals and other sponsored research opportunities.


Additional Responsibilities as needed:
  • Support outreach to industry partners and other potential external partners in coordination with group leadership


We are looking for:
  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant research experience in bioinformatics tools, including phylogenetics and comparative genomics beyond the highest customary degree in a related field.
  • Demonstrated experience conducting large-scale analysis of microbial and plant genomes and metagenomes, supported by a strong record of recent publications or manuscripts in preparation.
  • Experience developing scalable computational workflows for high-throughput genomic data analysis.
  • Proficiency in Python programming and experience developing scripts, tools, or pipelines to support biological data analysis.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to identify issues, troubleshoot complex problems, and recommend appropriate solutions.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively supervise staff, including assigning work, providing coaching and performance feedback, and supporting employee development.
  • Excellent organizational and record-keeping skills, including experience organizing and presenting technical reports to collaborators, staff, management, and sponsors.
  • Demonstrated oral and written communication skills, including experience preparing research results, publishing scientific research, delivering presentations, and preparing funding proposals.
  • Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills, with a demonstrated ability to conduct independent research while working effectively within an interdisciplinary research team.
  • Commitment to maintaining a positive safety culture and demonstrated knowledge of EH&S principles and practices.
  • Strong publication record in peer-reviewed scientific journals, with experience in the preparation and handling of scientific manuscripts, reports, and research posters.


Desired skills/knowledge:
  • Ph.D. in Microbiology, Bioinformatics, Biotechnology, or a related field.
  • Experience with plant and algal functional genomics.
  • Experience with metals in biology.
  • Ability to identify, develop, and secure external funding through competitive grant proposals and other sponsored research opportunities.


Additional information:
  • Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by August 1, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
  • Appointment type: 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.
  • Salary range: The expected salary for this position is $110,484 - $154,680, which fits into the full salary of $82,860 - $198,888 depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.
  • Background check: This position is 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.
  • Work modality: Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).
  • Relocation: This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.
  • Work authorization: Candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S. at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.


Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

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