The laboratory of Zuzana Tothova, MD, PhD is a multi-disciplinary team of physician scientists, scientists and computational biologists at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Broad Institute. Our laboratory uses genomics and a range of molecular and cellular biological techniques to elucidate the molecular basis of cancer and hematologic disorders and to develop novel therapeutics. Our specific focus is to understand the role of chromatin modifiers and epigenetic factors and find novel therapeutic opportunities in myeloid malignancies, including myelodysplastic syndromes and acute myeloid leukemia.

JOB TITLE:  Associate computational biologist

FLSA:  Full-time  

REPORTS TO:      Zuzana Tothova, M.D., Ph.D.

DEPT:    Medicine Oncology/ Heme Neoplasia

A full-time associate computational biologist position is available in the laboratory of Zuzana Tothova, MD, Ph.D. at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

We are seeking enthusiastic, self-motivated individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, challenging research environment, and can interact well with others as part of a cohesive team. If you have a desire to make a significant impact in healthcare and have the fortitude to work hard, you will succeed within this team.

This is an ideal entry-level position into the world of cutting-edge laboratory research.  A growth mindset and a willingness to take on challenging learning opportunities will be sought out traits. Ideal candidates will possess strong interpersonal skills along with a desire to help others to succeed.

Previous team members have gone on to successful academic and career opportunities; graduate/medical school, independent faculty, consulting, and industry.

The candidate will be involved in a series of research activities, including computational analysis of large-scale data sets generated in in vitro and in vivo human disease relevant models and use of next generation sequencing with a special emphasis on understanding the biology of human myeloid malignancies.

The candidate is expected to work largely independently on a daily basis after training, and will be closely mentored by a physician scientist. They will interact and collaborate closely with other scientists, biologists, chemists and computational biologists.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Works closely with computational biology colleagues and collaborators at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Broad Institute to analyze biological data sets, including but not limited to DNA sequencing, gene expression and transcriptome analysis, chromatin landscape profiling, and analysis of microscopy/imaging data.
• Modifies and maintains existing data-processing pipelines in the lab, and develops new pipelines and tools to analyze novel forms of data, including data cleaning, normalization, and visualization.
• Integrates multiple data sets to answer targeted scientific questions.
• Documents and compiles findings in oral and written reports.
• Attends team meetings to share results, plan projects and experiments.
• Maintains and improves technical knowledge base.
• Other related tasks as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in computational biology, computer science, or related field required.

• Experience with programming and large-scale data analysis required.

• Experience with principles of molecular biology and genetics are required.
• Excellent written, documentation and oral communication skills required.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to handle a variety of tasks in a fast-paced environment required.

SKILLS / ABILITIES / COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Passion for science and strong motivation required.
• Must be a strong team player.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and organizational skills, including the ability to handle a variety of tasks in a fast-paced environment, positive attitude and attention to detail, as well as ability to think on one’s feet are required.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong.  As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff.  Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

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