Scientist I- Computational Biology

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Wyss Institute at Harvard University?

The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky.  We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

About you:

You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. You want the opportunity to explore your scientific interests and apply your knowledge to tackle ambitious projects in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial-minded environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations, and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with highly motivated, diverse teams and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world.

About the role:

We are looking for a Scientist I to join our Diagnostics Accelerator team with significant expertise in analyzing Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and other high throughput datasets (mass spectrometry) for biomarker discovery. You will work with a multidisciplinary team on developing multi-omic technologies for investigating pathological states from human biofluids. You will lead development of novel Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) computational methods that will be used across different diseases. Although this role is primarily computational, you will also have an opportunity to participate or be trained in experimental methods and ideally serve as a hybrid computational / experimental scientist. 

What you'll do:

• Perform computational analysis of NGS (RNA-Seq, etc), mass spectrometry, and other large scale datasets to find novel biomarkers for different diseases
• Help with experiments developing novel platforms for biomarker discovery
• Provide training and guidance to other lab members on experimental technique
• Present data at internal Wyss Meetings and prepare presentations for updating program officers from funding agencies.
• Develop pipelines for selecting biomarkers from large multi-omic data sets. (NGS, mass spectrometry, etc.)
• Develop new technologies for profiling of biomarkers from human biofluids.
• Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork, scientific rigor, and collaboration within and across teams.

What you'll need:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, computer science, engineering, or a related field and at least 4 years of experience experience working with NGS data (RNA-Seq, etc).
• Strong programming skills in Python and/or R, and extensive expertise in writing computational biology workflows required.
• Advanced education may count towards years of experience.

Desirable skills: 

• MS or PhD in computational biology preferred but not required.
• Experience with ML/AI workflows helpful.
• Experience with analyzing mass spectrometry data helpful.
• Prior experimental experience (molecular biology, NGS library preparation, programming liquid handlers/automation) helpful.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, and Education. 

Why you’ll like working with us:

At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions.  We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

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Work Format Details

This is a position that is based at a Harvard campus location with some remote work options available. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. 

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 056. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.