Bioinformatics Specialist R26-42 - Research Foundation of State University New York

State University of New York's Department of Chemistry and RNA Institute seeks a Bioinformatics Technician in the laboratory of Prof. Shenglong Zhang on the Albany Campus (SUNY Albany). The position is to accomplish development of next generation mass spectrometry-based RNA sequencing methods. This includes development of methods to directly sequence RNAs, to examine their associated modifications, and to explore the potential roles of RNA modifications, e.g., in COVID-19, cancer biology, and metabolic diseases. The candidate will join an NIH-funded interdisciplinary research project, and a team of scientist and engineers, e.g., from Columbia University and Cornell Medical School in NYC. The candidate will have ample opportunities to acquire and develop new skills, work closely in a supportive, highly collaborative, and energetic environment with the PIs and collaborators in both academia and industry, and communicate results to the scientific community through conference presentations, patents and peer-reviewed publications.

Job Duties:

Responsible for development of next generation mass spectrometry-based RNA sequencing methods:

• Develop of algorithms, data analysis pipeline to obtain the sequencing and modification information effectively from our mass spectrometry-based data
• Develop data separation and sequencing algorithms
• Perform MS-based RNA sequencing data analysis and sequence generation, assembly, and alignment
• Assist in chemical experiments
• LC-MS data acquisition and collection

Responsible for the folllowing:

• Prepare high-quality figures, data visualizations, and illustrations for publications and presentations.
• Assist with writing, editing, and proofreading of: research manuscripts, book chapters, grant proposals, abstracts and posters, oral presentations.
• Synthesize complex scientific results into clear, concise, and accurate technical writing.
• Work closely with the PI and collaborators to ensure scientific rigor and clarity in all research deliverables

Minimum Qualifications :

• Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Chemistry, or related field, from a college or university accredited by the US Department of Education or other internationally recognized accrediting organization.
• Proficiency with Python, R, or similar programming languages.
• Experience with large-scale biological data analysis (omics, MS, RNA sequencing, etc.)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mass spectrometry data analysis.
• Background in RNA biology, sequencing technologies, or epitranscriptomics.
• Familiarity with machine learning, cloud computing, or algorithm development.