Principal Bioinformatics Data Scientist

Metric Bio has partnered with a client focused on leveraging multi-omics data for drug discovery. We are seeking an exceptional (Associate) Principal Bioinformatics Data Scientist with a strong background in computational biology and human genetics to advance the development and application of bioinformatics methods within a cutting-edge research platform. This role involves close collaboration with bench scientists to translate complex research questions into insightful experiments and analyses, as well as leading the design and execution of bioinformatics workflows to interpret rich ‘omics data.

As part of a cross-functional Data Science and Engineering team, you will work across various stages of R&D, employing diverse analytical approaches and integrating multiple data modalities, including imaging, chemical structure, medical records, and multi-omics. Success in this role requires deep expertise in statistical methods for ‘omics data analysis—particularly RNAseq and WGS—and the ability to communicate complex findings into impactful insights for biology and chemistry teams.

This position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a dynamic work environment. The role is based in Boston, MA, with hybrid flexibility, and reports to the Head of Data Science and Engineering.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with bench scientists to design experiments and bioinformatics analyses.
• Develop and implement novel computational approaches for ‘omics data analysis to address research challenges in drug discovery.
• Run and refine bioinformatics workflows and pipelines, with a focus on RNAseq and WGS data.
• Integrate additional datasets, such as pathway and network databases, to extract biological insights.
• Clearly communicate results and refine analytical methods based on feedback from cross-functional teams.
• Lead bioinformatics workstreams, potentially mentoring junior colleagues.
• Stay up to date with emerging bioinformatics tools and methodologies.
• Contribute to the development of bioinformatics capabilities, standards, and best practices across the organization.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Genomics, or a related field.
• 4 years of industry experience (pharma or biotech) in computational roles with demonstrated impact.
• Proficiency in R and/or Python, with strong skills in data manipulation and analysis.
• Hands-on experience in transcriptomics and genomics; experience in proteomics and ChIP-seq is a plus.
• Expertise in statistical methods for RNAseq (e.g., DGE, GSEA, GSVA) and WGS data (e.g., GWAS, PheWAS, e-/p-QTL, variant burden testing), including quality control techniques.
• Experience integrating ‘omics data with pathway/network datasets to derive biological insights.
• Solid understanding of molecular biology principles within a research or drug discovery context, preferably with oncology knowledge.
• Outcome-driven mindset, balancing innovation with pragmatic solutions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a track record of innovative approaches.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills for working across diverse expertise levels.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with cloud computing (AWS) and version control tools (Git), including containers and workflow orchestration tools (Nextflow).
• Familiarity with public datasets such as TCGA, DepMap, and UK Biobank.
• Experience with machine learning models and knowledge graphs.

Metric Bio and our client are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.