Research Scientist – Microbiome at BlueHalo

Research Scientist – Microbiome at Blue Halo – Dayton, Ohio, United States

Blue Halo is seeking a Research Scientist to support the Air and Space Biosciences Division within the 711th Human Performance Wing at the Air Force Research Laboratory. This position is onsite at Wright‑Patterson AFB, Dayton, OH. We are seeking expertise in microbiome sample processing and analysis in support of current research efforts investigating the role of the gut microbiome in deployment‑associated conditions for the US Air Force, in order to understand the role of microbiome composition in Warfighter health and performance.

In this role, the successful applicant will be involved in sampling and human‑subject studies, which involves sample preparation/sequencing of samples derived from military environments. Microbiome analyses will utilize bioinformatics tools designed to analyze microbial communities (e.g., 16S rRNA gene amplicon analyses (QIIME/DADA2/Mothur), metagenomics interpretation and visualization, shotgun analyses (Meta Phl An /humann2, RNAseq, etc.).

Top candidates will have experience with R programming (or similar) for statistics, including mixed models and non‑parametric methods, and data visualization tools. The ability to process and integrate other large datasets (i.e., metabolomics, surveys, assessments) with microbiome data is desired.

This position will support a multifunctional research team and collaborate across our division and with outside partners. The incumbent will contribute to a collaborative, fast‑paced, team‑based environment and bring a drive for delivering high‑quality research outcomes.

Requirements:

• Ph.D. or equivalent in microbiology, microbial ecology, bioinformatics, or systems biology, or related field, is required. MS degree with 2+ years relevant experience will be considered.
• Knowledge and experience in microbiome sample handling, processing, and analyses is required.
• Experience with Bioinformatics tools, such as R, and with Python or similar tools for data visualization is highly preferred.
• Experience with large data management/version control is preferred.
• Excellent technical writing skills, proficiency in data review and attentiveness to detail.
• Ability to interact with team members from different research fields and in different locations.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Exemplary oral and written communication skills, as evidenced by peer‑reviewed journal publications and conference presentations.
• This position will work on a US Government facility and U.S. citizenship is required.