Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC)

Today’s Research. Tomorrow’s Medicine.

The GSC is a department of the BC Cancer Research Institute and a high-throughput genome sequencing facility. We are leaders in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics in pursuit of novel treatment strategies for cancers and other diseases.

Among the world’s first genome centres to be established within a cancer clinic, for more than two decades our scientists and innovators have been designing and deploying cutting-edge technologies to benefit health and advance clinical research.

Among the GSC’s most significant accomplishments are the first publication to demonstrate the use of whole-genome sequencing to inform cancer treatment planning, the first published sequence of the SARS coronavirus genome and major contributions to the first physical map of the human genome as part of the Human Genome Project.

By joining the GSC you will become part of an exceptional and diverse team of scientists, clinicians, experts and professionals operating at the leading edge of clinical research. We look for people who share our core values—science, timeliness, respect—to join us on our mission to use genome science for the betterment of health and society.

Job Reference No: RA_R00006_Bioinformatics_2023_09_15

Role Summary

The Research Associate will collaborate closely with diverse teams to lead activities focused on the development, application, and validation of novel approaches and workflows within genomic technologies. This dynamic role plays a pivotal part in advancing the field of genomics and contributing to significant projects, including BC Cancer's Personalized OncoGenomics program and the TFRI-led Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network. —a major federal initiative co-developed with GSC involvement to accelerate the adoption of cancer precision medicine in Canada, as well as CGEn Technology Development.

Major Responsibilities

  • Developing bioinformatics workflows for new projects that require quick turnarounds and/or reproducible results and, where relevant, containerizing them.
  • Analyzing sequencing data from technology development experiments in the lab, summarizing results and formally presenting findings in meetings and discussions, including at local, national and international conferences as well as internal meetings.
  • Supporting technological advances and providing recommendations to wet and dry lab production groups on new technology and workflow optimizations based on comparative analyses, often with custom bioinformatics tools and workflows.
  • Facilitating the transfer of novel analysis pipelines and technologies into production, such as drafting Standard Operating Procedures, training production staff, and assisting with troubleshooting exercises.
  • Contributing to grant applications, protocol preparation, and other funding-related documents.
  • Performing other related duties as required.

Qualifications
Education and Experience:

  • PhD in molecular genetics, molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics or related field.
  • Exploratory data analysis(EDA) involving Illumina and/or ONT data.
  • Familiarity with whole genome, transcriptome, capture and epigenetic data.
  • Programming experience is a must, preferably with experience in scripting (Python), statistical analysis and data visualisation (eg. R, Matplotlib).
  • Familiarity with pipeline tools (eg. Nextflow, singularity) and high-performance computing (slurm) are highly desirable.
  • Knowledge and experience with public sequence data repositories (SRA, EGA) are also assets.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey complex scientific ideas.
  • Strong organization skills with the ability to efficiently manage time and workflow, including skillfully prioritizing both long-term projects and day-to-day responsibilities.
  • Ability for critical thinking and independent learning.

Apply

Please submit a detailed cover letter and resume to bcgscjobs@bcgsc.ca, using RA_R00006_Bioinformatics_2023_09_15 in the subject line of your email.

While we value and review all applications, please note that due to the volume of submissions only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This posting will remain online until the position is filled.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

Important!

As per the current Public Health Order, full vaccination against COVID-19 is a condition of employment with PHSA as of October 26, 2021.

Please note all jobs at the GSC are based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Flexible work options may be available for this position upon request and is subject to change in accordance with GSC’s operational needs and PHSA’s Flexible Work Options Policy.

We believe that equity, diversity and inclusivity are essential for the advancement of human knowledge and science.

We welcome all applicants and provide all employees with equal opportunity for advancement, regardless of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offence unrelated to their employment.

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