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Bioinformatics Associate Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Umd

Post-Doctoral Associate

College Park, MD

$60K - $70K/yr

Candidates should have a strong background in bioinformatics, genomics and evolutionary biology. A track record of excellent written and verbal communication, and the ability to work well with others ...

Umd

Post Doctoral Associate

College Park, MD

$60K - $75K/yr

PhD in biology, bioinformatics, computer science, or a related field within the past 5 years (or expected before starting the position) Experience with 3D image data, segmentation, and/or comparative ...

All JobsBioinformatics Associate JobsBioinformatics Associate Jobs in Reston, VA

Bioinformatics Associate information

See Reston, VA salary details

$51K

$211.7K

$416.1K

How much do bioinformatics associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for bioinformatics associate in Reston, VA is $211,679.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,700.00 and $416,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Bioinformatics Associate do?

The role of a bioinformatics associate is to perform detailed data analysis in a biology or life sciences research lab. An associate is a staff scientist or researcher, and they have significant responsibilities within the lab structure. They are responsible for conducting information support using primary research as well as developing models using a data algorithm or other analytical tools. A bioinformatics associate uses these to analyze the information and data sets collected in the lab. They may also develop a storage and archiving system so that other researchers can access data sets. Qualifications to become a bioinformatics associate typically include a master’s degree or Ph.D.

What does a Bioinformatics Associate do?

A Bioinformatics Associate is responsible for analyzing and interpreting complex biological data, often using computational tools and software. They work closely with scientists to manage and process large datasets, such as genomic sequences or protein structures. Their tasks may include developing workflows, running bioinformatics pipelines, and helping to visualize and present results. Typically, they support research projects in fields like genomics, molecular biology, and drug development. Bioinformatics Associates play a key role in translating raw biological data into actionable scientific insights.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bioinformatics Associate?

A Bioinformatics Associate requires a strong background in biology, computer science, and statistics, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with bioinformatics tools such as BLAST, Python, R, and experience with genomic databases are commonly expected, along with knowledge of data visualization platforms. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help professionals interpret complex data and collaborate with scientific teams. These skills ensure accurate analysis, meaningful insights, and successful contributions to research projects in a rapidly evolving field.

How does a Bioinformatics Associate typically collaborate with laboratory scientists and data analysts on research projects?

Bioinformatics Associates often serve as a bridge between laboratory scientists and data analysts, translating experimental requirements into computational workflows and helping to interpret complex biological data. They regularly meet with lab teams to discuss project goals, data quality, and analysis strategies, ensuring that bioinformatics approaches align with experimental designs. Collaboration is highly iterative, involving feedback loops to refine analyses based on preliminary findings and to troubleshoot data issues, which helps drive research projects forward efficiently and accurately.
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Bioinformatics Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Bioinformatics Associate job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $211,679 per year, or $101.8 per hour.

Post-Doctoral Associate, JIFSAN/Microbiome Center

UM01 University of Maryland College Park (UMCP)

Riverdale Park, MD • On-site

$65 - $75/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Job Overview

The Joint Institute for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (JIFSAN) at the University of Maryland (UMD), in collaboration with the UMD Center of Excellence in Microbiome Sciences, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in food safety microbiology and microbial genomics. The role is for a recent PhD graduate with expertise in both computational and experimental biology. The successful candidate will join interdisciplinary teams led by Professors Mihai Pop (Computer Science) and Jianghong Meng (Nutrition and Food Science). The research focuses on foodborne pathogens, microbial genomics, microbiome science, and AI‑driven data analysis for food safety applications. Professor Pop’s laboratory develops bioinformatics tools such as Bowtie, MetaCarvel, and metagenomeSeq, and current projects examine strain‑level variation and database accuracy in microbial communities. This position offers an opportunity to engage in cutting‑edge research, publish findings, and collaborate across multiple scientific disciplines.

Responsibilities
  • Conduct independent and collaborative research projects, designing, executing, and troubleshooting experiments (45%).
  • Apply computational and experimental approaches to investigate foodborne pathogens and microbial genomics, utilizing AI and big data analysis tools (20%).
  • Develop and optimize scientific methodologies and analytical techniques relevant to research objectives (15%).
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across microbiology, bioinformatics, and food safety research areas (15%).
  • Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer‑reviewed journals and present findings at national and international scientific conferences (5%).
Minimum Qualifications
  • Ph.D. degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related field.
  • 1–3 years of experience in computational biology, bioinformatics, genomics, or AI applications in biological research.
  • 1–3 years of experimental laboratory experience in microbiology and/or molecular biology.
  • Strong interest and background in microbial genomics and food safety microbiology.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, think critically, and maintain strong organizational and scientific writing skills.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • 1–3 years of experience working with microbial genome sequencing and comparative genomics.
  • Familiarity with machine learning or AI applications for biological data analysis.
  • Experience handling large‑scale biological datasets and high‑performance computing environments (1–3 years).
Physical Demands

Predominantly sedentary work. Occasional lifting up to 20 pounds and repetitive wrist, hand, or finger motions are required. Good visual acuity is needed for data analysis, reading, and computer use.

Licenses / Certifications

None required.

Application Materials

Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae, List of References (name, phone number, and email), Unofficial Transcript, Writing Sample, and Code Samples.

Salary

Regular Faculty: $65,000 – $75,000.

Benefits

Standard benefits for regular faculty are provided. For detailed information, refer to the university benefits overview.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination Notice

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