Computational Research Associate

The Singh lab (tjsinghlab.com) is looking for a motivated postbaccalaureate computational research associate to contribute to method development and analysis in statistical genetics. The candidate will apply statistical methods to analyze genetic and phenotypic data from clinical collections and population biobanks that include tens to hundreds of thousands of individuals. The candidate will use the depth and diversity of these multimodal datasets to characterize the effects of genetic risk factors for psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Specifically, they will analyze common, rare, and structural variants from whole-genome sequence data and detailed phenotypic (questionnaire, clinical, and imaging) data using novel and scalable methods in statistical genetics and machine learning to understand the pathogenesis of brain disorders. We hope to use these insights to identify genes associated with increased risk of particular symptom clusters and pinpoint pathways and processes associated with disease biology. The position is intended for two years, with the opportunity for renewal and promotion.

We are an interdisciplinary and collaborative team at the New York Genome Center (NYGC), with primary affiliations at the Columbia University's (CU) Department of Psychiatry and the New York State Psychiatric Institute (NYSPI) and a secondary affiliation at Columbia University's Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute. The position offers a unique opportunity to participate in a multi-institute research environment in New York City, with collaboration opportunities. Your work will support the building and strengthening the neuropsychiatric genetics program at the NYGC and CU Psychiatry. You are encouraged to learn from and engage with other researchers in lecture series, grand rounds, and academic events at these centers and institutes, which include work in statistical genetics, functional genomics, basic neuroscience, and clinical translation. In addition to leading research in our team, you can access resources for professional advancement and skill development at the NYGC and Columbia, which will help you apply for graduate school or pursue an industry career.

Key Responsibilities

• Apply statistical, computational, and machine learning methods for analyzing large-scale genetic and phenotypic data using scalable technologies;
• Implement, document, and scale these methods using robust programming tools and practices for internal use and for sharing with the community;
• Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts and subsequent submission to academic journals;
• Present regularly at internal meetings at NYGC and Columbia;
• Actively participate in lab activities;
• Share expertise and provide training and guidance to new group members as needed.

Qualifications

• B.A. in Biological Sciences, Genetics, Statistics, Computer Science, or equivalent;
• Familiarity in at least one modern programming language, including Python, R/RStudio, Java, C/C++, or equivalent;
• Familiarity with Unix/Linux platforms, such as basic shell scripting;
• Familiarity or interest in applying software engineering best practices (e.g., GitHub for version control, Docker for reproducible environments, etc.);
• Interest in learning about and analyzing high-throughput sequencing data (especially human genetic and functional data);
• The ability to work independently and collaboratively, and strong written and verbal communication skills.

Competencies

• Technical and Professional Skills: Consistently demonstrates skills and knowledge relevant to the current role; strives to expand the depth and breadth of technical and professional skills; works with a high level of integrity; exhibits focus and discipline; appropriately prioritizes, manages expectations, and delivers on commitments.

• Collaborative & Communicative: Models collaboration and teamwork; brings out the best in others; effectively works with all levels, internally and externally; respects and embraces the diversity of perspective; communicates clearly and listens carefully; use good judgment as to what to communicate and when to do so.

• Adaptable & Innovative: Adaptable and embraces change; develops new insights and pursues improvements and efficiency; fosters the exchange of new ideas and willing to challenge the status quo; takes the initiative and is solution-oriented; engages in work with passion and curiosity.

Mentoring Plan

The Computational Research Associate will meet regularly with Dr. Singh at NYGC, Columbia University's Department of Psychiatry, and the New York State Psychiatric Institute. The candidate will also interact regularly with researchers at these institutions. The Associate will participate in group meetings at both NYGC and Columbia and will participate in meetings of NYC-wide working groups if required. The fellow can access resources for professional advancement and skill development at the NYGC and Columbia.

Salary

The pay range for this position is $58,000 to $63,000 per year; the base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The NYGC offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits and generous time off.

Work Flexibility

NYGC has established a flexible work policy to allow employees and other staff to balance work, personal commitments, and commuting challenges. The incumbent in this position is eligible for a flexible work schedule or hybrid remote work arrangement (working onsite at least two days per week) with supervisory approval.

About the New York Genome Center

The New York Genome Center (NYGC) is an independent, nonprofit academic research organization dedicated to advancing genomic research. NYGC scientists and staff are furthering new approaches to diagnosing and treating neurological diseases and cancer through their unique capabilities in whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, state-of-the-art analytics, and the development of genomic tools. NYGC concentrates specifically on disease-based research in the following areas: neuropsychiatric disease (autism, schizophrenia, bipolar); neurodegenerative disease (ALS, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's), and cancer.

Located in Lower Manhattan, the New York Genome Center was founded by and remains closely affiliated with twelve leading academic medical centers and research universities in the New York region and beyond, engaging in research projects with and for these institutions. Essential to our collaborative work is an outstanding faculty whose members typically hold a joint appointment at NYGC and a partner university. They support our scientific mission by conducting independent research in mutual interest to the wider scientific community and us.

Equal Opportunity

NYGC is committed to creating a workplace where our employees reflect the rich diversity of the New York community- in race, gender, age, culture, and beliefs - and we work to support this diversity through our employment practices. We want our employees to thrive both personally and professionally.

The New York Genome Center is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, creed, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, protected veteran or military status, domestic violence victim status, partnership status, caregiver status, alienage or citizenship status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The New York Genome Center takes affirmative action in support of its policy to hire and advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

FLSA Status - Non-Exempt

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship by the New York Genome Center or relocation assistance.