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Variant Scientist Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Variant Scientist information

See Indiana salary details

$16

$44

$76

How much do variant scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for variant scientist in Indiana is $44.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.00 and $55.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Variant Scientist Do?

As a variant scientist, you work for a research laboratory in a university or a medical facility to test and study variations of genes and the effects they have on human development. As part of your duties, you aid in the development of new tests to discover gene abnormalities, perform analysis on patient samples to identify possible mutations, and record your findings to assist in scientific research. You also have heavy reporting responsibilities that may require in-depth computer and writing skills, the ability to analyze data, and strong attention to detail. In this role, you may cater to a specific health field, like pediatrics or oncology.

What are some common challenges faced by Variant Scientists in interpreting genetic data, and how are these typically addressed within a team?

Variant Scientists often encounter challenges such as distinguishing between benign and pathogenic variants, managing large volumes of sequencing data, and staying updated with rapidly evolving genetic databases. These challenges are typically addressed by collaborating closely with bioinformaticians, clinical geneticists, and laboratory personnel to review findings and validate interpretations. Regular team meetings, use of standardized classification guidelines like ACMG, and leveraging advanced software tools help ensure accurate and consistent variant analysis.

What are Variant Scientists?

Variant Scientists are professionals who analyze genetic variants—differences in DNA sequences—to determine their significance in health and disease. They interpret genomic data, often from whole-genome or exome sequencing, to assess whether specific variants may cause or contribute to medical conditions. Their work is crucial in clinical genetics, precision medicine, and biomedical research, helping guide patient diagnosis and treatment. Variant Scientists collaborate with clinicians, bioinformaticians, and laboratory personnel to provide accurate and actionable genetic insights.

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

To thrive as a Variant Scientist, you need a solid background in genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a PhD or MSc in a related field. Familiarity with next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, variant annotation tools, and data analysis software like GATK or ANNOVAR is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you interpret complex genetic data and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate variant interpretation, drive discoveries, and support precision medicine initiatives.
What are the most commonly searched types of Variant Scientist jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Variant Scientist jobs in Indiana are:
Postdoctoral Fellow in Medical and Molecular Genetics

Postdoctoral Fellow in Medical and Molecular Genetics

Indiana University

Bloomington, IN • On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Details
Title
Postdoctoral Fellow in Medical and Molecular Genetics
Specific Title
Appointment Type
Postdoctoral Fellow
Department
IUSM - Medical & Molecular Genetics
Campus
IU School of Medicine Indianapolis
Position Summary
The Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics at Indiana University School of Medicine is seeking applicants at the Postdoctoral Fellow level.
IU School of Medicine is committed to being a welcoming campus community and we seek candidates whose research, teaching, and community engagement efforts contribute to robust learning and working environments for all students, staff, and faculty. We invite individuals who will join us in our mission to improve health equity and well-being for all throughout the state of Indiana.
The postdoc will work with Dr. Zhana Duren. Dr. Duren is an Associate Professor of Medical and Molecular Genetics at the Indiana University School of Medicine. He is also adjunct Associate professor for Biostatistics and Biomedical Engineering & Informatics, and Associate Director for AI Research at the Center for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics. Dr. Duren's research focuses on development of computational methods and bioinformatics tools for integration of multi-omics and gene regulatory networks. The long-term research goal is to answer the key scientific question "How non-coding genetic variant act through context specific gene regulatory network to influence phenotype".
Applications will be received until the position is filled.
Basic Qualifications
We seek a computational genomics postdoc to develop new methods and tools for gene regulatory networks, single-cell multi-omics integration, spatial omics, and variant effect mapping in complex disease. Strong method/tool dev experience required (Python/R, ML/stats, reproducibility).
Department Contact for Questions
Applicants should submit a 1-2 page cover letter/research statement, a CV, and contact information for 3 references through the Indiana University academic careers portal via this link: https://indiana.peopleadmin.com/postings/31528 For any question about this position, please contact Dr. Zhana Duren: zduren@iu.edu.
Additional Qualifications
Special Instructions
Priority Application Review Deadline
Expected Start Date
01/01/2026
Posting Number
IUSM-02323-2025