Bioinformatics/Data Science Analyst - UHN, Toronto

AI Summary

This Senior Bioinformatics Analyst position at University Health Network (UHN) in Toronto, ON, focuses on basic/translational cancer research at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. The role involves organizing, planning, analyzing, and interpreting large genomic cohort analyses, including DNA/RNA sequencing data. Key requirements include a B.Sc., M.Sc., or Ph.D. in bioinformatics or a related field, at least one year of relevant experience, and strong programming skills in R, Python, or BASH.

About the Role at UHN

The University Health Network (UHN) is seeking a Senior Bioinformatics Analyst to join the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, Canada. This temporary full-time, one-year contract position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to world-leading basic and translational research in cancer immunology and cancer genomics, specifically focusing on lymphoid malignancy and clonal hematopoiesis. The successful candidate will work within the laboratories of Dr. Tomohiro Aoki and Dr. Robert Vanner, leveraging UHN's world-class computational infrastructure. A core aspect of this role involves organizing, planning, analyzing, and interpreting results from a variety of exciting large genomic cohort analyses currently underway. This includes designing and executing experiments to study pathogenesis, molecular mechanisms, and treatment resistance in lymphoid malignancy. The analyst will be responsible for interpreting molecular analyses from DNA/RNA sequencing data, including single-cell sequencing, whole genome sequencing, circulating tumour DNA analyses, and methylation profiling. Furthermore, the role requires analyzing and interpreting spatial analyses at both protein and transcriptional levels. Developing and overseeing high-throughput data pipelines, particularly for new single-cell technologies such as scRNA-seq, scATAC-seq, scMultiome-seq, and Visium/CosMx spatial transcriptomics, is a key duty. The analyst will also develop new computational methods to integrate and interpret multi-omics data, assisting and collaborating with internal and external researchers in data interpretation. Contributions to open-source software packages and managing lab servers are also expected. This research position at UHN offers significant exposure to cutting-edge cancer research.

Qualifications and Experience

Candidates for this Senior Bioinformatics Analyst role at UHN should possess a B.Sc., M.Sc., or Ph.D. in bioinformatics, computer science, or a recognized equivalent in a health or science-related discipline. A minimum of one year of related experience is essential for this position. Strong programming skills are required, specifically in R, Python, BASH, or TensorFlow. Experience working in a Linux environment and utilizing high-performance computing systems, such as Slurm, for analyzing large datasets is critical. Adherence to best practices for software development, including version control with GitHub, is also expected. Demonstrated exposure to Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) data analysis and datatypes (FASTQ, BAM, VCF, etc.), including the analysis of targeted, exome, or genome sequencing data, is a must. Hands-on experience with cancer genomic analyses, including whole genome sequencing (WGS), RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, or single-cell RNA-seq, is preferred. Training in statistics or machine learning is also preferred, alongside solid skills in statistical analysis covering ANOVA, regression, clustering, phylogenetics, and survival analysis. Experience with machine learning and data modelling is considered an asset. The role demands excellent communication skills and a team-oriented approach, as collaboration with other research team members and external collaborators is frequent. Experience in mentoring students and junior researchers is also a valuable asset for this position within the UHN research environment.

Why Join University Health Network (UHN)?

University Health Network (UHN) in Toronto offers a compelling environment for professionals seeking to advance their careers in healthcare and research. Beyond the opportunity to work alongside some of the most talented and inspiring healthcare professionals globally, UHN provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, programs, and perks designed to support employees throughout their careers. As a government organization and a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP), UHN offers competitive compensation packages. The Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, where this role is based, boasts close access to public transit and UHN shuttle services, enhancing convenience for employees. UHN promotes a flexible work environment and offers significant opportunities for development and promotions within its large organizational structure. Additional perks include multiple corporate discounts on travel, restaurants, parking, phone plans, and auto insurance, along with on-site gyms. Joining UHN means becoming part of an inclusive recruitment process and workplace, committed to providing accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process. This commitment to employee well-being and professional growth makes UHN an attractive employer for those dedicated to making a significant impact in health research, particularly in the critical field of cancer.