Research Services Information Sciences Professional (Intermediate - Senior Level)

Job Summary:

The Cole Lab in the Department of Biomedical Informatics at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is seeking a computational Information Sciences Professional with a background in computational biology/bioinformatics, applied biostatistics, human genomics, and/or related fields. Individuals from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

As a member of the Cole Lab (jcolelab.com), this position will be responsible for using biobank and cohort data to lead genomic research projects in a variety of fields including but not limited to nutritional epidemiology and metabolism. We are particularly interested in individuals with a strong bioinformatics background to provide additional computational support for the lab and ongoing analyses.

The primary aims of the Cole Lab are to use a variety of computational and statistical approaches and large-scale genomics and other -omics data to explore the environment's relationship with human health and disease, with a focus on diet and cardiometabolic health. Our current goals are to:

• Identify the genetic determinants of dietary intake to understand how our genes influence the foods we choose to eat via both direct (e.g. sensory pathways) and indirect (e.g. mediators such as socioeconomic status and body mass index) mechanisms.
• Elucidate the environmental and biological mechanisms of dietary intake and food metabolism and how inter-individual variation influences these processes and their downstream effects on health.
• Identify causal relationships between diet, lifestyle, and human health with a focus on cardiometabolic traits and diseases.
• Develop and apply Mendelian randomization approaches focused on environmental exposures.
• Improve how environmental variables are captured and defined to increase their power as exposures, outcomes, and interactors in studies across many fields.
• Quantify the impact of genetics via polygenic risk scores on clinical trial outcomes.
• Conduct human studies to validate genetic findings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with and support Principal Investigators (PI) and other stakeholders in the area of bioinformatics and data analysis, working in high-performance and/or cloud computing environments.
• Perform scientifically rigorous data management and bioinformatic analyses.
• Develop and implement complex analyses pipelines, programming, and data visualization techniques for multi-layered -omics datasets (transcriptome, epigenome, proteome, microbiome, etc.).
• Creatively and effectively integrate data from multiple sources to accelerate discoveries.
• Assist with the design and development of major bioinformatics-related programming projects.
• Write custom scripts to access databases and analyze data.
• Independently and creatively identify bioinformatic and data management solutions.
• Assist and train junior team members.
• Document all analyses for reproducibility and create training materials, where necessary.
• Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, presentations, and grant proposals.

Work Location:

Hybrid - this role is eligible for a hybrid schedule of 2-3 days per week on campus and as needed for in-person meetings.

Why Join Us:

The CU Department of Biomedical Informatics enhances clinical care through integrated computational technology, laboratory investigations, and artificial intelligence. Our basic, clinical, and translational scientists and researchers in DBMI are developing new methods and applications of computational technology, integrating computational data with laboratory investigations, and translating findings to improve patient care. We train the next generation of biological and clinical informaticists who contribute to a diverse biomedical workforce and support CU Anschutz Medical Campus initiatives in research, clinical care, and other areas of informatics.

Why work for the University?

We have AMAZING benefits and offer exceptional amounts of holiday, vacation and sick leave! The University of Colorado offers an excellent benefits package including:

• Medical: Multiple plan options
• Dental: Multiple plan options
• Additional Insurance: Disability, Life, Vision
• Retirement 401(a) Plan: Employer contributes 10% of your gross pay
• Paid Time Off: Accruals over the year
• Vacation Days: 22/year (maximum accrual 352 hours)
• Sick Days: 15/year (unlimited maximum accrual)
• Holiday Days: 10/year
• Tuition Benefit: Employees have access to this benefit on all CU campuses
• ECO Pass: Reduced rate RTD Bus and light rail service

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Diversity and Equity:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is committed to recruiting and supporting a diverse student body, faculty and administrative staff. The university strives to promote a culture of inclusiveness, respect, communication and understanding. We encourage applications from women, ethnically minoritized individuals, persons with disabilities, persons within the LGBTQ+ community and all veterans. In addition, the Anschutz Campus has also been recognized as an Age-Friendly University. The University of Colorado is committed to diversity and equality in education and employment.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Intermediate Level:

• Bachelor's degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computational Biology, Data Science, Computer Science or related field.
• One (1) year data management and bioinformatic analyses experience.

Senior Level:

• Bachelor's degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computational Biology, Data Science, Computer Science or related field.
• Two (2) years data management and bioinformatic analyses experience.

A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year for year basis.

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computational Biology, Data Science, Computer Science or related field.
• Three (3) years of experience analyzing data using high-performance computing.
• One (1) year of experience analyzing data using cloud computing.
• One (1) year of experience analyzing human genomics data.
• One (1) year of experience working with UK Biobank, AllofUs, and/or other large-scale cohorts or biobanks.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Advanced knowledge of basic statistical principles relevant in medical research.
• Ability to analyze and solve complex problems and apply quantitative analytical approaches.
• Demonstrated fluency in one or more programming languages (e.g., R, Python, Perl, Java, C++) and willingness to learn new programming languages as necessary.
• Familiarity with statistical analytical concepts and methods.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees at all levels throughout the institution.
• Demonstrated commitment to advance diversity and inclusion.

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1. A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position.

2. Curriculum vitae / Resume

3. Three to five professional references, including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address.

Questions should be directed to: Dr. Joanne Cole, joanne.cole@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Screening begins immediately and continues until January 1^st, 2025.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as:

Intermediate Level: $55,352 - $70,407

Senior Level: $59,840 - $76,116

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position may be eligible for overtime compensation, depending on the level.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@cuanschutz.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.