Senior Scientist; Computational - Genetics

Overview

The Cremins lab works at the spatial biology-technology interface to understand chromatin-to-synapse communication during neural circuit activation in the mammalian brain. We aim to understand how chromatin works through long-range physical folding mechanisms to encode neuronal specification and long-term synaptic plasticity in healthy and diseased neural circuits. We pursue a multi-disciplinary approach integrating data across biological scales in the brain, including molecular Chromosome-Conformation-Capture sequencing technologies, single-cell imaging, optogenetics, genome engineering, induced pluripotent stem cell differentiation to neurons/organoids, and in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological measurements.

Our long-term scientific goal is to dissect the fundamental mechanisms by which chromatin architecture causally governs genome function and, ultimately, long-term synaptic plasticity and neural circuit features in healthy mammalian brains as well as during the onset and progression of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disease states. Our long-term mentorship goal is to develop a diverse cohort of next-generation scientists cross-trained in molecular and computational approaches.

We seek to create a positive, high-energy environment with open and honest communication to empower individuals to discover and refine their purpose and grow into the best versions of themselves.

• Collaborates on designing, conducting and reporting of research projects.
• Leads the process of monthly cleaning of servers and network attached storage across a 25 person laboratory to facilitate major long-term cost savings for the lab.
• Oversees the code development and data storage and accessibility needs of the laboratory toward discovery-based science across all genomics, imaging, and connectome data. Develops key algorithms in collaboration with other graduate students, postdocs, and scientists to advance the lab’s papers and discoveries.
• Trains to achieve mastery in code to analyze Hi-C/Micro-C/snm3c data (calling compartments, TADs, loops) and peak calling for ChIP-seq, Cut&Run and Cut&Tag data; oversees data management and analysis standards.
• Creates algorithms to analyze data generated by projects to create paper figures and make discoveries.
• Guides lab members to write and edit methods sections and figures for research papers where the analysis is used in the manuscript.
• Oversees junior computational scientists to ensure data is organized, managed, and curated on the cluster and in-house servers.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting, including editing and coordinating scientific content to meet grant progress deadlines.
• Prepares and submits papers on research and assists with administrative paperwork as needed.
• Oversees and writes SOPs for data storage and movement onto GEO and NIH portals for public data accessibility.
• Trains new lab members on algorithms, version control (Bitbucket/Git Hub), data naming conventions, and GEO.
• Manages research projects with other institutions and investigators.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological, chemical and radioactive hazards.
• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be exhaustive. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications
PhD or terminal degree or combination of education and experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications / Professional Licenses
No specific certification or professional license is required for this position.

Work Experience
Postdoctoral (3 years)

Skills
Not Applicable

Driver's License
A driver’s license is not required for this position.

• Familiar with genomics assays and their computational pipelines, image processing (segmentation, spot calling, drift correction).
• Exceptional commitment to the collaborative ethos of the Cremins laboratory.
• Demonstrated ability to handle daily laboratory challenges with a dedication to values of reconciliation, unity, mutual honor, and respect.
• Strong skills in verbal and written communication with a dedication to open, transparent communication with mentors and peers.
• Strong orientation to detail with exceptional organizational skills.

Grade R12

Salary Range $63,400.00 - $ / Annually

• The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

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