The Ntziachristos laboratory studies the mechanistic aspects of oncogenesis with an emphasis on transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of acute leukemia. We study how oncogenes interact with each other and with epigenetic modulators to influence gene expression programs as well as how their function is related to tri-dimensional (3D) structure of the nucleus and other biological aspects of cancer cells, like metabolism. Recent studies by our group focus on how active deubiquitination controls aspects of oncogenesis and leads to drug resistance in leukemia. To address these questions we use high-throughput molecular and cell biology techniques like RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq, 4C-Seq and HiC, fluorescent in situ hybridization, biochemical analysis e.t.c., in cell lines and primary cells of human origin and tissues of mouse models of disease. In addition to understanding cancer biology these finding help us design and test targeted therapies in preclinical models of leukemia.

Highly-motivated and collaborative scientists, that hold a Bachelor, Master’s or Ph.D. degree, and with a strong track record and expertize in Bioinformatics, with a focus on RNA biology and the analysis of splicing phenomena, computational systems biology or related fields are encouraged to apply. The candidates should have knowledge of gene expression biology and of high-throughput methodologies such as RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq, HiC, and 4C-Seq. Successful candidates will be part of a multidisciplinary team and will be part of projects sought out to understand oncogenic function in leukemia.

The group is a member of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics situated in the campus of Feinberg School of Medicine in Northwestern University in the heart of the Chicago metropolitan area. The team has access to cutting-edge technology and facilities and is exposed to the vibrant scientific community of Northwestern University and other research centers in the Chicago area. Scientists in the group have the opportunity to present their work and get feedback in Institutional, National and International forums.

Partners with clients to design, develop, implement and maintain business solutions regarding data management and analysis. This includes database administration, data consolidation, data analysis and management reporting. Utilizes software to generate metrics and develops actionable recommendations. Collaborates with various function teams such as marketing, research, and IT to achieve business results.

Specific Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning

• Manages and plans for data/analysis requests and projects.
• Provides consultation to customers on appropriate data management, methodological issues and statistical analyses.
• Collaborates with technical staff explaining needs of functional users. Serve on committees related to data structure and governance.

Administration

• Reviews reports before presentation to ensure quality and accuracy.
• Develops and maintains documentation of process for quality assurance and reporting methodology
• Defines, develops and communicates new standards and best practices.

Development

• Interprets results using a variety of techniques, ranging from simple data aggregation via statistical analysis to complex statistical analysis.
• Determines data structure for local datasets.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s or higher degree; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
• 4 years data analysis/report writing or similar experience required.
• Please see information highlighted below:
  • Infrastructure (extends across applications): Code Repositories (Git, Subversion), GlobusOnline, GPGPU (CUDA), Linux Operating System.
  • Programming Languages and Frameworks: Java, Perl, Python, Shell Scripting, R.
  • Analytical: Critical thinking, data mining, data modeling, debugging, metadata creation and management, problem solving, troubleshooting.
  • Project: Code documentation, collaboration and teamwork, facilitate collaboration, organizational skills.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Demonstrated ability to learn about new technologies.
• Demonstrated ability in working with commercial software.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills and ability to work with individuals and groups.
• Ability to multitask, work and learn independently, and be self-motivated.
• A record of taking the initiative to solve problems and working to high-quality standards.

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• PhD or Master’s degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics or Computer Science with biology background.
• Proficient in Unix, with experience R, Python or Perl.
• Background in statistics is preferred.
• Willingness and capability to share knowledge with other members of the team.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Record of taking the initiative to solve problems and working with high standards.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with software versioning tools.