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Bioinformatics Engineering Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

$84K - $104K/yr

This role combines deep expertise in computational biology with strong software engineering and organizational leadership to design, implement, govern, and scale bioinformatics platforms that support ...

Bioinformatics Engineering information

What is the difference between Bioinformatics Engineering vs Bioinformatics Analyst?

AspectBioinformatics EngineeringBioinformatics Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Bioinformatics, Computer Science, or related fields; programming skillsBachelor's or Master's in Bioinformatics, Biology, or related fields; data analysis skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, healthcare institutionsResearch institutions, healthcare, pharmaceutical companies
Employer & Industry UsageDevelops tools, pipelines, and software for data analysisInterprets data, generates reports, supports research projects

Bioinformatics Engineering focuses on developing software and pipelines for data processing, requiring programming expertise. In contrast, Bioinformatics Analysts primarily interpret data and generate insights, often with a stronger emphasis on biological knowledge. Both roles are vital in biotech and healthcare industries, but they differ in technical scope and daily tasks.

What is a bioinformatics engineer?

A bioinformatics engineer is a professional who develops and applies computational tools and techniques to analyze and interpret biological data, such as DNA sequences or protein structures. They combine expertise in computer science, biology, and mathematics to create software, manage databases, and solve complex biological problems. Bioinformatics engineers often work in research, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and biotechnology industries to help advance scientific discoveries and medical innovations.

How do bioinformatics engineers typically collaborate with biologists and data scientists in a research setting?

Bioinformatics engineers frequently work in cross-disciplinary teams, partnering closely with biologists to understand experimental goals and with data scientists to analyze complex datasets. Effective communication is key, as engineers must translate biological questions into computational workflows and interpret results in a way that is meaningful to non-technical team members. This collaborative approach not only accelerates research but also helps engineers gain a deeper understanding of biological processes, which can lead to more innovative solutions and professional growth.

What is the salary of a bioinformatics engineer?

The average salary of a bioinformatics engineer typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Professionals with advanced skills in programming, data analysis, and familiarity with tools like Python, R, and Linux tend to earn higher salaries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bioinformatics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bioinformatics Engineer, you need a solid background in biology, computer science, and statistics, often supported by a degree in bioinformatics or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or R, experience with bioinformatics tools (e.g., BLAST, GATK), and proficiency with databases and cloud computing platforms are typically required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and collaboration skills set standout professionals apart in this interdisciplinary field. These competencies are crucial for effectively analyzing complex biological data and driving innovation in life sciences research.
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Bioinformatics Engineering jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Bioinformatics Engineering job openings:
Bioinformatics Analyst, Senior

Bioinformatics Analyst, Senior

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Vanderbilt University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 535 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description
The Senior Bioinformatics Analyst is part of the Creative Data Solutions (CDS) Shared Resource at Vanderbilt University and serves as a senior-level contributor responsible for leading bioinformatics analyses of genomic data sets, developing and implementing advanced transcriptomic statistical models, and directing research studies. This position requires that the ideal candidate will have extensive experience in analyzing large-scale genomic and transcriptomic data, including next-generation sequencing data, and deep expertise in statistical analysis methods involved with such data. The candidate should demonstrate leadership capabilities, mentor junior team members, and possess exceptional communication and problem-solving skills. Reporting directly to the Director of CDS, the Senior Bioinformatics Analyst will lead collaborations with investigators throughout the Vanderbilt community on multiple complex projects simultaneously.
About the Work Unit:
Creative Data Solutions (CDS), a Vanderbilt University Shared Resource, provides informatics and bioinformatics services to investigators in the fields of academic and clinical research, with an emphasis on life sciences. CDS blends modern data science approaches with robust software and database engineering to provide practical solutions to problems and challenges faced by research investigators in a timely and cost-effective fashion.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
  • Acts as a specialist in the analysis and interpretation of large-scale genomic and transcriptomic data sets using advanced bioinformatics tools and methods. Modalities include both bulk and single-cell RNA-Seq, DNA-Seq, chromatin binding analysis (CUT&RUN, ChIP-Seq, ATAC-Seq, etc.), spatial transcriptomics (10X Visium/HD, Nanopore GeoMX), and ad hoc bioinformatics.
  • Designs and develop complex sophisticated statistical models.
  • Leads the design and execution of research studies involving genomic and transcriptomic data.
  • Directs groups to conduct collaborative efforts with team members to interpret and present research findings.
  • Maintains expertise in the latest developments in bioinformatics, genomics, and transcriptomics.
  • Architects and maintain robust pipelines for processing and analyzing large-scale genomic data sets.
  • Supervises and coordinates with bioinformatics and laboratory personnel to ensure the quality and accuracy of genomic data.
  • Leads the interpretation and visualization of genomic data and prepares comprehensive reports and presentations for research studies and publications.
  • Drives the development of novel analytical methods and techniques for genomic data analysis.
  • Provides strategic bioinformatics leadership for clinical studies and trials involving genomic data.
  • Leads the development and implementation of data management and sharing policies for genomic data.
  • Mentors and trains team members and collaborators on advanced bioinformatics tools and methods.
  • Represents the organization at scientific conferences, workshops, and training programs to maintain cutting-edge knowledge in bioinformatics, genomics, and transcriptomics.
  • Coordinates externally with partners and stakeholders, such as academic and industry researchers, regulatory agencies, and patient advocacy groups, on research projects and initiatives.
  • Handles project timelines, resource allocation, and deliverable quality across multiple concurrent projects, while auditing processes to ensure compliance and efficiency.

Supervisory Relationships:
  • This position does not have supervisory responsibilities; this position reports administratively and functionally to the Director of CDS.

Education and Certifications:
  • Ph.D. degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, genetics, statistics, or a related field is required with at least 8 or more years of experience

Experience and Skills:
  • Post-doctoral experience or skill is preferred.
  • Experience with BioVU would be an added benefit.
  • Experience with long read RNA-Seq would be a strong advantage.
  • Background or experience in bioinformatics and a strong understanding of statistics is required.
  • Proficiency in programming languages R and Python
  • Knowledge of statistical analysis methods for genomic data, including GWAS, rare variant analysis, and eQTL analysis.
  • Familiarity with common bioinformatics tools and databases, such as Ensembl, UCSC Genome Browser, and dbGaP.
  • Familiarity with HPC and cloud computing infrastructure.
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

About Us
At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.
We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.
Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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