Head of Bioinformatics Support Unit

The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research

Head of Bioinformatics Support Unit
Bioinformatics Division
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research
Parkville, Australia

An opportunity exists for an experienced bioinformatician to join the Bioinformatics Division at The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI).

The WEHI Bioinformatics Division is one of the largest bioinformatics research groups in Australia, with a reputation for developing statistical and computational methodology that has become widely used around the world. The Bioinformatics Support Unit is a new initiative starting in 2014, aimed at increasing the Division's capacity to support genomic research being conducted in the WEHI's biological research divisions. The WEHI conducts basic research into the causes of human diseases including cancer, immune disorders, malaria and arthritis. The Bioinformatics Division is seeking an experienced bioinformatician to head the new Support Unit.

The Support Unit will undertake bioinformatics analyses of a wide variety of genomic data generated by research groups at the WEHI. The data analysed will especially include next generation sequencing data designed to profile gene expression patterns, gene regulatory mechanisms or DNA structure. The analysts will use advanced bioinformatics tools developed at the WEHI and elsewhere and will have access to high quality computing facilities. The appointee will supervise members of the Support Unit to undertake analyses as well as undertaking analyses themselves. The appointee will report to the Bioinformatics Division Head, but will receive advice and support from all senior members of the Bioinformatics Research Division. The appointee with help establish analysis pipelines for common types of genomic data.

Applicants with a PhD or equivalent in a relevant discipline are welcome to apply. Relevant disciplines include computer science, mathematics, statistics, computational biology or genetics. The position requires strong programming and data analysis skills, as well as excellent management, writing and communication skills.

The positions will be for 2 years in the first instance. Salary is dependent upon qualifications and experience. Up to 17% superannuation and attractive salary packaging options are available.

A position description is available. General enquiries should be directed to Professor Gordon Smyth (smyth@wehi.edu.au) or Professor Terry Speed (speed@wehi.edu.au).

Written applications including cover letter, CV and the names of 3 professional referees should be emailed in PDF format quoting WEHI/MKSH to jobapplications@wehi.edu.au.

Closing date: 31 January 2014.