Bioinformatician-Computational Biologist Associate Rabosky Lab

How to Apply

Please attach a cover letter as the first page of your resume, outlining your interest in the position and detailing the skills and experiences you believe make you an ideal candidate. We will request three letters of reference for candidates progressing to the interview stage.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Bioinformatician-Computational Biologist (Associate level) to join an active research program in population genomics, focusing on reptiles and amphibians. The successful candidate will be a key collaborative member of the research team, contributing intellectually and technically to studies of genetic structure, speciation, and phylogenetic relationships across diverse biogeographic regions. This position requires a high level of independence, encompassing both molecular laboratory work and computational data processing. The technician will oversee the generation and initial analysis of genomic data, coordinate with external sequencing providers, and contribute to the development and execution of reproducible workflows for data organization, validation, and downstream analysis. The technician will also participate in manuscript preparation, particularly for methods and data-related sections, and may assist in data-driven decisions related to species delimitation and sample prioritization.

Mission Statement

The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.

Responsibilities*

The Bioinformatician-Computational Biologist Associate will provide essential technical, computational, and administrative support for multiple research projects in population genomics, with a focus on the genetics, speciation, and phylogenetics of reptiles and amphibians. This is a senior-level position requiring the ability to manage complex molecular and data workflows, and to operate with a high degree of independence from the PI.

20% - Project Coordination and Laboratory Administration: The technician will oversee daily lab operations, including inventory management, ordering supplies and reagents, equipment setup and maintenance, safety compliance, and tracking expenditures. They will serve as the primary liaison with sequencing facilities, handling logistics, contracts, and cost estimation for next-generation sequencing (NGS). They will participate in high-level decision-making, including evaluating sequencing providers, optimizing data yield and quality while minimizing costs, and determining appropriate sequencing strategies (e.g., depth of WGS coverage and sample allocation). The technician will also train and supervise junior lab personnel, including undergraduates and graduate students.

70% - Laboratory Work / Bioinformatics in Population Genomics: Core responsibilities include DNA extraction, PCR, and library preparation for ddRAD and whole genome sequencing. The technician will coordinate and oversee sample submissions to external sequencing cores, ensuring compliance with project timelines and quality control standards. Upon receipt of sequencing data, they will be responsible for organizing, validating, and tracking demultiplexed data; managing sample metadata; and conducting initial computational quality control using established bioinformatics pipelines. They will assist in preparing datasets for downstream analysis, including comparative population genetic and phylogenomic workflows. Familiarity with tools for read filtering, alignment, and variant calling is strongly preferred, and the technician may assist in generating summary statistics or exploratory visualizations of genetic structure. Accurate sample management across tissues, DNA extracts, and sequencing libraries is essential. The technician will also contribute to drafting sections of manuscripts, particularly methodological content, and assist with data interpretation for sample selection and experimental design. They are expected to troubleshoot both molecular and computational issues and improve lab protocols and data workflows as needed.

10% - Mentorship and Scientific Support: The technician will provide mentorship and technical guidance to other lab members, supporting their work in both wet lab and bioinformatics tasks and ensuring consistency and quality across related projects.

Required Qualifications*

The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelors degree in a relevant biological or computational discipline (e.g., genomics, evolutionary biology, molecular ecology, or bioinformatics) Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in DNA extraction, PCR, and library preparation for both ddRAD and whole genome sequencing, as well as a clear understanding of sample preparation workflows and the logistics of submitting materials to external sequencing facilities. They must also have experience with bioinformatics tools for organizing and conducting preliminary analysis of large genomic datasets, including demultiplexing, quality control, and metadata management. Familiarity with read processing, alignment, and variant calling pipelines is strongly preferred. Proficiency in Unix/Linux command-line environments is essential, along with scripting skills in R and Python for bioinformatics data processing, visualization, and reproducible workflow development. Strong organizational skills are essential, along with experience in sample tracking, data management, and maintaining accurate laboratory records. The candidate should be capable of independently managing lab inventories, ordering reagents and primers, and troubleshooting both molecular and computational issues. Prior experience coordinating with sequencing facilities and contributing to project planning and execution-including decisions about sequencing depth and sample design-is strongly preferred. The position requires maturity, judgment, and the ability to support multiple ongoing research projects with minimal supervision.

Desired Qualifications*

M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant biological or computational discipline (e.g., genomics, evolutionary biology, molecular ecology, or bioinformatics) and hands-on experience involving both laboratory -based and bioinformatics work in population genomics. This experience may include relevant work completed during graduate training.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes .

Additional Information

This position is 8 months term limited, with possibility of renewal.

As one of the world's great liberal arts colleges, LSA pushes the boundaries of what is understood about the human experience and the natural world, and we foster the next generation of rigorous and empathetic thinkers, creators, and contributors to the state of Michigan, the nation, and the world.

To learn more about LSA's Mission, Vision and Values, please visit lsa.umich.edu/strategicvision .

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Job Detail

Job Opening ID

267753

Working Title

Bioinformatician-Computational Biologist Associate Rabosky Lab

Job Title

Bioinfo-Comput Biologist Assoc

Work Location

Ann Arbor Campus

Ann Arbor, MI

Modes of Work

Onsite

Full/Part Time

Full-Time

Regular/Temporary

Regular

FLSA Status

Exempt

Organizational Group

College Of Lsa

Department

LSA Ecology & Evolutionary Bio

Posting Begin/End Date

8/21/2025 - 8/28/2025

Salary

$58,000.00 - $72,000.00

Career Interest

Research