Staff Scientist I, Data Science

Job Title: Staff Scientist I, Data Science

Job Number: 64699

Location: Baltimore, Maryland, US

Job Description

A little about us:

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. We are one of the only research institutions in the world focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence the way our brains develop that lead to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder and related developmental brain disorders. Through our cutting-edge research, answers are emerging and being translated into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development. And, by focusing on genes and their dynamic interplay with the environment, we are getting even closer to the “holy grail” in medical research, the discovery of strategies for primary prevention.

We are a group of dedicated, multidisciplinary and optimistic researchers, working at the cutting edge of science, utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mystery of the brain and transform the way we approach the development of new treatments, and ultimately cures. LIBD is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD.

Job Summary:

A staff scientist position in statistical genetics and bioinformatics is now available to work with Dr. Shizhong Han, Lead Investigator at the Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) and Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Johns Hopkins. Research in Dr. Han’s lab aims to understand the genetic underpinnings of brain disorders and translate genetic findings into drug discovery. We achieve this by creative analysis of large-scale multi-omics datasets from public domain and our in-house datasets generated from the human postmortem brain samples (GWAS, whole genome bisulfate sequencing and RNA-Seq). The candidate is expected to help us identify disease causal genes though application of advanced statistical genetics methods (fine-mapping, mendelian randomization, colocalization) and network-based approaches.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities:

· Perform standard mQTLs, eQTLs analysis, and use susieR for fine-mapping of QTLs

· Build prediction models for DNA methylation and gene expression levels using SNP data, and further perform MWAS or TWAS through integration with GWAS

· Prioritize causal risk variants within GWAS risk loci through colocalization and mendelian randomization

· Prioritize causal genes and dysregulated pathways underlying disease through network-based approaches

· Present research results at team meetings and scientific conferences as well as contribute to peer-reviewed publications and grant applications.

· Other duties as assigned.  

Minimum Qualifications:

· Master’s Degree or higher in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Genetics, Neuroscience, or related field is required. 

· A minimum of 2 years related experience. 

Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

· Proficiency in Linux and programming with R, Python, or Perl. 

· Knowledge in statistical genetic methods (e.g., mendelian randomization, colocalization, fine mapping and polygenic risk score)

· Demonstrated experience in large scale genomic studies

· Collaborative person who is proud of their important role in the scientific discovery process.

· Driven by providing quality service along with an attention to detail.

Physical Requirements:

Incumbent is required to work in an office environment. 

· Must be able to move about the office and campus as well as remain stationary for extended periods of time.

· Ability to continuously operate a personal computer for extended periods of time.

· Visual acuity as well as mental acuity sufficient to collect and interpret data, evaluate, reason, define problems, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, make valid judgments and decisions are required

· Ability to speak and hear well enough to communicate clearly and understandably with sufficient volume to ensure an accurate exchange of information in normal conversational distance, over the telephone, and in a group setting

· Physical dexterity sufficient to use hands, arms, and shoulders repetitively to operate a keyboard and other office equipment, use a telephone, access file cabinets and other items stored at various levels, including overhead

· Ability to lift or move objects up to 25 lbs.

Application Deadline: 2024-02-29