JOB ID: PCD_E00375_Clinical_2021_08_11
Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC) is a state-of-the-art, large scale, high throughput, clinically accredited genomics and bioinformatics facility with extensive, world-renowned expertise in adopting cutting edge technology for genomics applications combined with innovative and internationally-recognized bioinformatic capabilities.
If you are a computational scientist with clinical laboratory experience, who has designed and performed computational experiments that generate clinically relevant results, who understands and can improve upon process development and programming workflows, and is motivated to contribute towards scientific endeavours that will ensure that cancer patients continue to receive the best standard-of-care in the world—then join us!
As a Process Development Coordinator within the Centre for Clinical Genomics (CCG) at the GSC, reporting to the Centre for Clinical Genomics Informatics team lead, you will be responsible for improving and expanding the array of active clinical germline, tumour and cell-free DNA panel sequencing assays. The PDC will develop new clinical procedures and bioinformatic workflows, monitor and review performance within the clinical production process, and where applicable, improve existing analyses; monitor results and compare them to best-practice standards; and always strive to streamline efficiency, maximize quality and balance cost. The PDC collaborates closely with key stakeholders for the clinical processes including the clinical director, bioinformatics groups and quality assurance group. You will need to be prepared to take initiative, to think critically and solve complex problems, to build and nurture collaborative relationships across departments, and to learn continuously.
The position is anchored within a team of exceptional scientists, computational biologists and programmers, which collaborate directly on the development of robust, cost efficient, and competitive processes for new targeted and precision medicine analytical pipelines. By working within the GSCs bioinformatics facility, you will develop close relationships with world-renown computational and genome science technologists, cancer researchers and medical scientists; have access to one of the most robust computational and next generation genome sequencing technology facilities in Canada, all while living in one of the most beautiful, diverse and eclectic cities in the world. Your work will help to save lives and contribute to a world free from the fear of cancer.
This is an opportunity to work with highly motivated colleagues in a science-oriented, creative and dynamic environment. We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits and significant career development opportunities.
Apply now!
Duties and Responsibilities
Oversees the development and testing of clinical bioinformatics production processes by:
- Designing and performing experiments pertaining to the delivery of clinical panel sequencing data. This includes, but is not limited to, the development and testing of new analyses, protocol optimization, Quality Assurance and Quality Control, testing of prototypes and related activities.
- The PDC continually monitors performance of protocols within the production process and identifies areas for improvement. All activities will yield documented recommendations and implementation plans.
- Troubleshooting existing clinical computational processes where necessary. Makes recommendations and adjustments and reports problems.
- Training designated members of the clinical bioinformatics group in new or optimized analysis workflows. Writes or revises protocols accordingly.
- Performing technical functions related to the Bioinformatics groups of the GSC.
Qualifications
- Graduation from a recognized Bachelor’s program in an appropriate discipline such as Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Genetics, Molecular Biology or Biochemistry—OR, an acceptable equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
- Proven expertise with Python and/or other similar high-level languages.
- Demonstrated ability in R or other similar statistical programming languages and in statistical analysis.
- Functional knowledge of distributed version control systems, such as Git.
- Demonstrated experience with next generation/ third generation sequencing technology with an in-depth understanding of standards and guidelines for validating clinical bioinformatics analysis pipelines using these technologies.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Comfortable working in a Linux environment, including experience with shell scripting and common command-line tools.
- Demonstrated interpersonal skills including the ability to work effectively with others in a team environment.
- Experience liaising with multiple stakeholders to support consensus goals.
- Demonstrated ability to efficiently organize work assignments and establish priorities to meet set milestones.
- Demonstrated ability to write technical documents including validations and procedure manuals.
- Excellent analytical skills.
- Demonstrated ability to accept responsibility and work independently.
- Experience with bioinformatic workflow managers eg Nextflow would be considered an asset.
- Management experience is also an asset.
Apply
Please submit a detailed cover letter and resume to bcgscjobs@bcgsc.ca, using Business Analyst and Project Support in the subject line of your email.
This posting will remain open until filled.
Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, the position would require working remotely within British Columbia on a temporary basis with an ability to come to the normal workplace within reasonable notice. This restriction would be re-evaluated after finalization of reopening plans.
As per the current Public Health Order, full vaccination against COVID-19 is a condition of employment with PHSA as of October 26, 2021.
We believe that diversity and inclusivity are essential for the advancement of human knowledge and science.
We welcome all applicants and provide all employees with equal opportunity for advancement, regardless of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, conviction of a criminal or summary conviction offence unrelated to their employment.
All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.
Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre
Today’s Research. Tomorrow’s Medicine.
The GSC is a department of the BC Cancer Research Institute and a high-throughput genome sequencing facility. We are leaders in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics in pursuit of novel treatment strategies for cancers and other diseases.
Among the world’s first genome centres to be established within a cancer clinic, for more than two decades our scientists and innovators have been designing and deploying cutting-edge technologies to benefit health and advance clinical research.
Among the GSC’s most significant accomplishments are the first publication to demonstrate the use of whole-genome sequencing to inform cancer treatment planning, the first published sequence of the SARS coronavirus genome and major contributions to the first physical map of the human genome as part of the Human Genome Project.
By joining the GSC you will become part of an exceptional and diverse team of scientists, clinicians, experts and professionals operating at the leading edge of clinical research. We look for people who share our core values—science, timeliness, respect—to join us on our mission to use genome science for the betterment of health and society.
Centre for Clinical Genomics
The Centre for Clinical Genomics (CCG) is based within Canada's Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC) and is supported by the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA). Further partnerships with the clinical laboratories of the Lower Mainland Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Services provide extensive diagnostic experience and consultation. These partners work together to ensure timely and accurate delivery of clinically-actionable information required to ensure excellent patient care.
Clinical genomic testing is rapidly becoming a standard of care for many hereditary and acquired conditions and this integrated partnership will see that demand met with quality service provision. As this testing demand grows, we require novel strategies to address testing capacity and capability. The CCG is well-placed to implement novel genomic technologies, and harness the significant bioinformatic expertise residing at the GSC for data analysis and interpretation.
The CCG provides high throughput sequencing for genomic diagnostics in CAP (College of American Pathologists) accredited laboratories. The combination of technical, informatic and clinical expertise ensures that genomic diagnostics will be delivered with high-quality and confidence.