Metabolomics Scientific Engineering Associate

Berkeley Lab’s Joint Genome Institute (JGI) is looking for a Scientific Engineering Associate to join their Metabolomics Research Group!

 

In this exciting role, you will play an important role in computational metabolomics and the implementation of mass spectrometry-related workflows for analyzing metabolomes from experimental samples. This position will develop and apply algorithms, user interfaces, and new programmatic capabilities to accelerate compound identification and metabolomics data analysis. This includes developing Python methods, processes, and systems to consolidate and analyze unstructured, diverse “big data” sources to generate actionable insights and solutions for addressing research questions using metabolomics and genomics datasets. 

 

The development work and analysis algorithms will be performed on high-performance computing hardware at the National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center (NERSC).  As part of the team, you will identify weaknesses in the current code-base and workflows, propose solutions, and implement them using best practices. In addition to developing metabolomics workflows, custom analysis, and new algorithms for metabolomics at LBNL, you will be expected to contribute to papers that showcase integration of biological sequence data with metabolomics data. You will have the opportunity to work alongside other scientific staff, postdocs, and students supporting data analysis of experiments, for example modeling microbial food webs, microbial community design, optimizing production of soil metabolites that build Carbon, etc.

 

What You Will Do:

• Develop and apply innovative computational approaches to accelerate the analysis of mass spectrometry data.
• Implement existing and new approaches for spectral networking, accelerate searches to aid in compound identification, and integration of metabolic pathways.
• Collaborate with other members of the metabolomics research team to analyze datasets and write manuscripts.
• Develop and implement algorithms to perform complex calculations efficiently on mass spectrometry data (e.g., spectral similarity scoring).
• Support projects utilizing metabolomics / mass spectrometry-based approaches including sample preparation and data analysis.
• Provide training to other group members on new analyses, algorithms, techniques and instruments, and provide input to improve lab performance, analysis throughput and analytical workflows, and automation of processes.
• Participate in cross-team and cross-group collaborative projects and method improvement efforts.
• Contribute to scientific literature with publication of peer-reviewed journal articles.

 

What is Required:

• A minimum of 2 years of related professional technical experience in data science and programming including expertise with Python.
• Demonstrated experience in both lab and computational approaches to mass spectrometry based metabolomics.
• Expertise in mass spectrometry instrumentation and data analysis.
• Experience in culturing microorganisms or environmental microbiology.
• Experience with Python programming, creating web applications, the linux shell, version control, unit-testing and test-driven design.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills including experience documenting and presenting research results.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills including the ability to work within a diverse and collaborative interdisciplinary team environment.

 

What We Prefer:

• A Bachelor’s Degree Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Experience working with metabolomics, mass spectrometry, microbiology or environmental datasets.
• Lab experience with basic microbiology, molecular biology and chemistry.
• Experience with other programming languages, statistics, visualization, and web development.
• Familiarity with cutting edge data analysis approaches in machine learning.

 

For full consideration, please apply by May 26, 2022 with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.

 

Notes:

• This is a full time, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 1 year (benefits eligible) Term appointment with the possibility of renewal up to a maximum of 5 years total or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs. 
• Salary is commensurate with experience.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule - a combination of teleworking and performing work on site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab.

 

Learn About Us:

 

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

 

The JGI ’s mission is to provide the global research community with access to the most advanced integrative genome science capabilities in support of the DOE”s research mission to solve the world’s evolving energy and environmental challenges. The JGI supports projects in genome sequencing, synthesis, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and natural products in plants, fungi, algae, and microorganisms.

 

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities. To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here .

 

Based on University of California Policy - SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccination Program and U.S Federal Government requirements, Berkeley Lab requires that all members of our community obtain the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as they are eligible. As a condition of employment at Berkeley Lab, all Covered Individuals must Participate in the COVID-19 Vaccination Program by providing proof of Full Vaccination or submitting a request for Exception or Deferral. Visit covid.lbl.gov for more information.

 

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments.

 

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab’s mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. 

 

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links:

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