Biologist; Genomics

Position Objective

The National Institutes of Health requires contractor support for laboratory and computational analysis of genomic and epigenomic data. The work supports ongoing research involving genotyping, long‑range sequencing, and DNA methylation profiling at the National Institute on Aging (NIA) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

• Evaluate read quality, coverage, depth, sample integrity, and contamination.
• Flag anomalies and provide preliminary interpretation.
• Perform DNA extraction from blood, tissue, or cultured cells using established protocols.
• Conduct genotyping assays (e.g., SNP arrays, PCR‑based methods).
• Support long‑range sequencing workflows (e.g., library preparation and sequencing using long‑read platforms such as Pac Bio or Oxford Nanopore).
• Perform DNA methylation assays (e.g., bisulfite conversion, array‑based or sequencing‑based methods).
• Execute established QC pipelines for sequencing and genotyping data.
• Compile and document QC metrics in standardized formats.
• Modify existing scripts and pipelines to support project needs.
• Perform data analysis using R (statistical analysis and visualization) and scripting (Python, Bash, or equivalent).
• Conduct variant calling, basic annotation, DNA methylation data processing and analysis, and data integration across datasets when directed.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records.
• Identify routine technical issues and implement standard troubleshooting steps.
• Prepare summary tables, figures, and written summaries of methods and results.
• Present findings in internal meetings to NIH staff.
• Contribute to draft reports, manuscripts, or project updates.
• Maintain sample processing logs, DNA extraction records, and yields.
• Maintain genotyping/sequencing outputs (raw and processed data files).
• Maintain QC reports with standardized quality metrics and summaries.
• Maintain analysis outputs of variant and methylation results, visualizations.
• Maintain scripts and code documentation (R/Python/Bash).
• Provide monthly summary of work performed and findings.
• Provide presentation materials (slides or briefings) for NIH staff.

• Masters Degree in Biology or a related field.
• At least 2 years of experience.
• Proficiency in R and at least one scripting language.
• Experience with QC and data visualization.
• Familiarity with genomic data formats (FASTQ, BAM, VCF).

• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• Detail‑oriented and possess strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and projects.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.