Research Scientist in Computational and Functional Genomics - Center for Public Health Genomics

The Rector & Visitors Of The University Of Virginia - Charlottesville, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Charlottesville, VA

About the position

The Miller Laboratory at the University of Virginia School of Medicine is seeking a Research Scientist specializing in Computational and Functional Genomics. This position focuses on applying functional genomic analyses to explore inherited vascular diseases and cardiomyopathies. The successful candidate will engage in projects that utilize advanced genomic technologies, including single-nucleus techniques such as snATAC/snRNA-seq and snCUT&Tag, as well as spatial genomic analyses like spatial transcriptomics and proteomics. These analyses will be conducted on both healthy and diseased subjects from ancestrally diverse backgrounds, aiming to characterize the cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms underlying various subtypes of cardiovascular diseases that currently have high unmet clinical needs. Key objectives of this role include optimizing scalable single-nucleus and spatial genomic technologies for both fresh and archived human biospecimens. The Research Scientist will also apply targeted and systematic genome engineering approaches to perturb candidate regulatory elements or genes in relevant cellular models. Collaboration is a significant aspect of this position, as the scientist will work with colleagues to develop and refine phenotypic screens for genetic and drug perturbations. Additionally, there will be opportunities to enhance bioinformatics and computational skills through collaborative projects both internally and externally. The Research Scientist will have access to a wide array of cutting-edge wet-lab and computational resources, fostering a stimulating, multi-disciplinary, and inclusive environment within the Center for Public Health Genomics (CPHG). Close collaboration with other CPHG labs will provide further training in both wet lab and computational biology skills. The candidate will also benefit from strong partnerships with faculty members in the Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center and the Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics. This position is a 12-month appointment with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability.

Responsibilities

• Optimize scalable single-nucleus and spatial genomic technologies for fresh and archived human biospecimens.
• Apply targeted and systematic genome engineering approaches to perturb candidate regulatory elements or genes in relevant cellular models.
• Collaborate with colleagues to develop and optimize phenotypic screens for genetic and drug perturbations.
• Engage in bioinformatics and computational projects to enhance skills and contribute to research.
• Characterize cellular, molecular, and genetic mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases.

Requirements

• Requires a doctoral degree or master's degree with significant experience.
• PhD in the life sciences (e.g., molecular biology, genetics, or related field) is preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of biomedical fields, human physiology/disease, cell biology, and signaling.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.
• Ability to work in a cross-functional team is essential.
• Experience in human genetics or functional genomics is preferred.
• Some experience in bioinformatics or computational biology is preferred but not required.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in human genetics or functional genomics.
• Some experience in bioinformatics or computational biology.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401k retirement plan
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible scheduling options