RESPONSIBILITIES

The J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI) is currently recruiting a postdoctoral fellow to work on the taxonomic classification of metagenomic sequences under the direction of Prof. Andrey Tovchigrechko. The initial focus of the project will be to develop new and apply existing machine learning algorithms for accurate high-throughput taxonomic classification of both assembled and unassembled metagenomes. The postdoc will also have the opportunity to develop new bioinformatics research projects at the interface of sequence analysis, microbial and viral ecology, and machine learning. The candidate will contribute to the development of an open source toolbox for the taxonomic analysis of metagenomic data. This toolbox will include a high-performance computational back-end running on distributed resources such as NSF TeraGrid as well as a flexible Web front-end based on the Galaxy bioinformatics workbench.

ABOUT THE TEAM

Informatics is the largest department within the JCVI. This group includes bioinformatics scientists and software engineers who perform both federally funded R&D research to develop new tools for analysis of genomics data, as well as, service functions in support of JCVI research projects.

REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants are required to have a PhD in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, Engineering, Ecology, Computational Biology or related field. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong knowledge of scientific programming and prior exposure to research in the biological sciences. Good practical knowledge of programming in Python and C++ under Linux is strongly preferred. Other preferred skills include working knowledge of statistical theory and development of distributed pipelines in the Linux cluster environment.

SALARY & COMPENSATION

JCVI offers an excellent working environment and a competitive benefits package.

HOW TO APPLY:
The position is available immediately. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, and continue until the position is filled. To apply, please fill out the online application form for position INFO735 at http://www.jcvi.org under the Careers tab. Please include a list of publications and the names of three professional references on your CV. Prospective applicants can also contact Andrey Tovchigrechko (atovtchi[at]jcvi.org) with more specific questions about the research project and qualifications requirements.

This position will be supported by the National Science Foundation grant 0850256 (the abstract is available at http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=0850256).

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.