Research Data Scientist - Molecular and Precision Medicine / Medicine

Senior Bioinformatician / Research Data ScientistThe Penn State College of Medicine, Department of Molecular and Precision Medicine and Department of Medicine, seek a PhD-trained Senior Bioinformatician / Research Data Scientist to support an expanding portfolio of translational and precision health research programs. The successful candidate will develop, implement, and evaluate advanced computational and statistical approaches to analyze high-dimensional biological data, including multi-omics datasets. This role will collaborate closely with faculty investigators across disciplines—including aging biology, infectious diseases, cancer biology, and mucosal immunology—to integrate genomics, transcriptomics (including single-cell), proteomics, and related datasets into mechanistic and translational insights.The Senior Bioinformatician will serve as a key computational partner across multiple projects, contributing to study design, data analysis, visualization, and interpretation while helping to build sustainable computational infrastructure within the department.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop, select, and apply advanced computational and statistical methods to analyze complex biological datasetsPerform integrative multi-omics analyses (e.g., genomics, transcriptomics, single-cell RNA-seq, proteomics, epigenomics)Utilize and implement tools such as Scanpy and other single-cell analysis frameworksDevelop and maintain reproducible workflows in Python and related programming environmentsCollaborate with faculty to design computational strategies aligned with research aimsDevelop novel algorithms, software tools, and analytical pipelines to address emerging research questionsGenerate high-quality visualizations and analytical summaries for manuscripts, grant applications, and presentationsContribute to interpretation of results and development of new hypothesesSupport training of trainees and junior investigators in data analysis best practicesEnsure data management, documentation, and reproducibility standards are maintainedPreferred QualificationsPhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Biostatistics, Computer Science, or related fieldDemonstrated experience analyzing high-dimensional biological or omics datasetsStrong programming skills in Python (required) and familiarity with data science frameworksExperience with single-cell data analysis tools (e.g., Scanpy or similar platforms)Experience integrating multi-omics datasetsAbility to work collaboratively across interdisciplinary research teamsStrong written and verbal communication skillsBackground in biology, immunology, cancer biology, infectious diseases, aging, or related biomedical fieldsExperience working in an academic medical center environmentFamiliarity with high-performance computing environments and cloud-based analysisTrack record of contribution to peer-reviewed publicationsImpact of the RoleThis position will serve as the senior bioinformatics lead across multiple translational research initiatives, enabling integration of large-scale datasets into biologically meaningful discoveries.

The role is central to advancing precision health initiatives and strengthening the department's computational research capacity.Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required CertificationsMaster's Degree; 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: NoneSalary & BenefitsThe salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $91,488.00 - $137,280.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.