Research Assistant Professor​/Co-Director of BioRACC

Research Assistant Professor/Co-Director of BioRACC

Under the supervision of the RCMI grant leadership, the Research Assistant Professor / Co-Director of BioRACC will conduct computational biology and bioinformatics research while providing operational and strategic leadership for the Biomedical Research and Advanced Computing Center (BioRACC). This position supports the Research Centers in Minority Institutions grant and contributes to the Research Capacity Core. The successful candidate will advance computational biology, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence driven research;

oversee research computing infrastructure and services; and help build a robust, collaborative biomedical research environment. Responsibilities include applying data-driven and computational approaches to biomedical, translational, and drug discovery research; mentoring students, trainees, and junior investigators; contributing to scholarly publications; and pursuing external funding opportunities. This position requires demonstrated expertise in computational biology, bioinformatics, or a closely related discipline. The role involves designing and implementing analytical pipelines, developing computational methodologies, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and supporting the continued growth and operations of BioRACC.

This is a grant position.

Leadership and Research Capacity Development:
Provide strategic direction and oversight for research computing services and infrastructure in alignment with institutional research priorities. Mentor research staff, students, and trainees to enhance computational and analytical capacity across the research enterprise. Collaborate with faculty, research teams, and external partners to promote interdisciplinary research and strengthen computational research capabilities. Develop and communicate a clear mission and strategic plan supporting research growth, innovation, and long-term sustainability of BioRACC.

Computational Biology & Bioinformatics Research:
Apply computational, statistical, and machine learning approaches to analyze large-scale biological datasets (e.g., genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and related data types). Design, develop, and implement computational workflows, algorithms, data models, and analytical pipelines supporting biomedical and drug discovery research. Develop, adapt, and optimize bioinformatics tools, software interfaces, and databases to meet evolving research needs. Collaborate in the design, execution, and interpretation of experimental studies, providing expertise in computational strategy and data integration.

Training, Collaboration, and Technical Support:
Teach and train students, staff, and faculty in computational biology and bioinformatics methodologies. Consult with investigators on research design, data analysis strategies, and technology based solutions. Provide instruction in bioinformatics workflows, statistical analysis tools, and research computing platforms. Support the development and maintenance of accessible, user-friendly computational research environments and resources.

Scholarly and Professional Contributions:
Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences and institutional symposia. Prepare progress reports and contribute to grant proposals to secure extramural research funding. Engage in ongoing professional development and remain current with emerging advances in computational and biomedical research.

Qualifications:

Ph.D. in Computational Biology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Systems Biology, Biomedical Science, or a closely related field. Minimum of five (5) years of experience in biomedical research. Experience working in collaborative, interdisciplinary research environments. Experience with programming languages such as R, Python, and Linux-based environments. Preferred experience in computer programming, analytical instrumentation, and artificial intelligence applications in biomedical research.