Data Scientist (Computational Genomics)

The Smithsonian Institution is seeking a Data Scientist with computational genomics experience to advance large-scale biodiversity genomics initiatives. In this hybrid role in Washington, DC, you will build analytical workflows and statistical models, strengthen genomic data integration, and support the Laboratories of Analytical Biology community through both technical work and knowledge sharing.

What you’ll do

• Act as a recognized subject matter expert spanning data science, genomic data integration and interoperability, operations research, and data management and analytics and/or visualization.
• Conduct and oversee research and analysis for bioinformatics projects using genomic, transcriptomic, metagenomic, NGS (Next Generation Sequencing), and other genomic datasets.
• Apply data science, data management, and data analytics and/or visualization technologies and core principles to support genomic analytics.
• Deliver informal and formal training to the genomics community through workshops, carpentries, seminars, or short courses.
• Create publicly accessible training videos that explain how to conduct genomic analyses.
• Use advanced programming and analytical approaches to work with datasets that include qualitative, quantitative, structured, and unstructured data types.
• Develop and implement analytical workflows and statistical models for large-scale biodiversity genomics datasets, and provide expertise to support the (IDSC).
• Serve as a liaison to the Smithsonian’s Laboratories of Analytical Biology community on data integration, analysis, and informatics.

Key skills used in the role

• Research and development of bioinformatics applications, including algorithm design, implementation, unit testing, version control, deployment, and maintenance.
• Understanding of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data generation processes across multiple platforms.
• Ability to assess platform-specific data characteristics, quality metrics, and downstream implications for genomic analysis and pipeline development.
• Capability to develop and manage production analytics and visualization resources and applications.
• Skill in communicating complex bioinformatics, data science, and computational genomics concepts to diverse audiences.
• Competence in analyzing technically complex documents and data to reach sound conclusions and develop solutions.

Qualifications

• Minimum experience: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 level in the Federal Service.
• Specialized experience includes: expertise in research computational genomics and bioinformatics, data science and management and data analytics using high-performance computing, and experience working with others and training them in bioinformatic data pipelines and tools.
• Education: a degree in Mathematics, statistics, computer science, data science, or a directly related field (at least at the baccalaureate level).
• Alternative pathway: a combination of education and experience, including courses equivalent to a major field of study (30 semester hours) plus additional education or appropriate experience.
• Background investigation: pass a Pre-employment Background Investigation.
• Additional requirements: probationary period may be required; maintain a bank account for direct deposit/electronic transfer; males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service.
• Resume length: no more than two (2) pages.

How you’ll work

• Location: Washington, DC (hybrid)
• Telework: Telework eligible: Yes (AD-HOC ONLY)
• Travel: 25% or less (occasional)
• Schedule: Full-time, full-time permanent

Employment details

• Appointment type: Permanent (Federal)
• Federal service type: Competitive Service
• Union represented: No
• Drug test: No
• Security clearance: Other
• Position sensitivity and risk: Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk; background check and security clearance may vary by job type
• Background check type: Credentialing
• Financial disclosure: No
• Job series: 1560 Data Science Series
• Supervisory status: No

Salary and grade

• Pay scale & grade: GS 13
• Salary range: USD 121,785 - 158,322 per year
• Promotion potential: 13; Full Performance Level (FPL) is GS-13

Benefits

• Vacation and sick leave
• Holidays
• Health/life insurance
• Accident insurance
• Excellent retirement program options
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Leave
• Long Term Care Insurance
• Retirement Program

Application and evaluation

• How to apply: Use the “Apply Online” button and submit required supplemental documents (if relevant).
• Deadline: the complete application package, including required documents, is due to the Smithsonian Office of Human Resources by the announcement closing date at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
• Application documents may include: resume; proof of veteran’s preference if applicable (DD214 Member 4 copy and SF 15 plus additional documentation for 10-point preference); unofficial school transcripts if using education to qualify; proof of U.S. accreditation for foreign study if applicable; and any required accreditation documentation.
• Evaluation process: first-stage evaluation of responses to online multiple-choice questions covering experience, education, and/or training, followed by assessment of knowledge and abilities including bioinformatics application development, NGS data generation processes, evaluation of data quality and downstream implications, production analytics and visualization resource development, communication, and analysis of complex technical materials.

Additional posting details

• Vacancies: Few vacancies in Washington, DC
• Who can apply: open to the public; U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.
• Announcement number: 26R-JW-314317-DEU-NMNH
• Control number: 877856700
• Representation: this position is not included in the bargaining unit
• Recruitment incentive: recruitment incentive(s) may be authorized
• Sharing information: application materials and personal information may be shared with one or more Smithsonian hiring officials for employment consideration for same/similar positions within the identified location(s)
• Selection: more than one selection may be made from this announcement