BIOINFORMATICS PROGRAMMING POSITION – DNA SEQUENCING SOFTWARE
Computational Genetics Laboratory
http://bioinformatics.bc.edu/marthlab
The Marth laboratory (http://bioinformatics.bc.edu/marthlab) at the Boston College Biology Department develops DNA sequence analysis software for data from high throughput sequencing machines (e.g. 454, Illumina, AB). We build sequencing read mapping algorithms, genetic variant detection algorithms, and programs for DNA sequence data visualization, and participate in large international sequencing data analysis projects.
The laboratory was recently awarded funding by the NIH to build a central read mapping and genetic variant discovery pipeline for large public sequencing datasets. This project involves re-implementation of existing tools and the development of new computer programs for data storage, I/O, and CPU-intensive tasks. We are seeking two experienced software engineers to support our postdoctoral researchers and doctoral students with high quality implementations of such data analysis algorithms. The successful candidates will work side by side with scientists to implement and support algorithms; improve software performance e.g. by parallelization; develop graphical user interfaces and data visualization tools; build and maintain scientific databases and web sites to disseminate research findings.
Applicants should have, as a minimum, a Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Engineering or related area and substantial programming experience. Previous experience in bioinformatics is advantageous but not a requirement. The applicant should be an expert in those software languages that are mostly utilized in this laboratory (C++, C, JAVA, PERL or PYTHON, and CGI scripting languages). Experience with modern productivity tools (e.g. MS Visual Studio, the GNU development package, XCode, JAVA development environments), web programming, and database management will also be important. Self-motivation, flexibility, and creativity are critical, as the programmer will be expected to take the lead in designing and implementing features that will improve the usability of software, websites, and databases. Individuals with project management experience are especially encouraged to apply.
Applications including a curriculum vitae (resume) should be submitted electronically, to Ms. Kate Niemer at niemer@bc.edu. Applicants should be prepared to show code samples from earlier projects. Positions are available immediately. Well-qualified candidates will be offered competitive compensation.