Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Gerencser lab at the Buck Institute seeks aData Scientistin the field of microscopy-related image processing and machine vision. Dr. Akos Gerencser directs the Institute’s microscopy core, and the Gerencser laboratory uses cell biology, advanced microscopy, and single-cell gene expression techniques to address fundamental questions about mitochondrial function in health and aging. A current emphasis is the regulation of mitochondrial function in pancreatic β-cells in human type 2 diabetes. The successful candidate, in collaboration with other Buck laboratories, will solve a range of light microscopic, time-lapse, high-content and throughput, 3D, and whole slide imaging-related problems.

Project Overview

Working in a team environment, the Data Scientist will utilize various data analysis methods and software tools, building and implementing algorithms using relevant programming languages and computational environments in support of scientific projects. Modern microscopy image analysis extensively relies on AI-based (i.e., convolutional neural networks) and classical morphological image segmentation, object detection, instance segmentation, image registration, and object tracking. We use automated microscopes, and the amount of generated data requires largely automated workflows and analysis pipelines. You will help develop such tools and assist biologists in applying these methods.

The main project uses microscale bioenergetic assaying of human primary β-cell cultures, top-down analysis of cellular energy metabolism, and single-cell gene expression analysis. These require data analysis workflows combining multiple detection modalities. You will be involved in handling/programming data acquisition automation, such as high-content imaging and high-throughput screening/robotics systems. You will receive training in the experimental technologies used in this project, design and conduct experiments, and analyze data.

Qualifications

Essential Requirements

MS in computer science or bioinformatics
Experience in biological image processing
Programming in Python, experience with common scientific imaging libraries
Data analysis skills, such as programming in MATLAB, Mathematica, or R
UNIX/Linux skills
Proven portfolio or publication record
Strong written and oral communication skills
Ability to prioritize and manage your time
Ability to work independently and successfully within a group

Desired Skills

Experience with laboratory automation
Experience in single-cell RNAseq workflows and handling NGS data
Deep learning, using convolutional neural networks for object detection, instance segmentation, or embedding
Microscopy and image analysis using scripting

Compensation & Benefits

The starting salary for a new Scientific Data Analyst/Programmer is $90,000 in 2023, with a range of up to $130,000.
Exciting, dynamic work environment at the forefront of science using state-of-the-art techniques.
Generous benefits package including health insurance, paid parental leave, childcare assistance, generous vacation/sick leave, and 401(k) with 5% employer match.
Collaborative environment – both for science and social activities.

About Us

Our success will ultimately change healthcare. At the Buck, we aim to end the threat of age-related diseases for this and future generations by bringing together the most capable and passionate scientists from a broad range of disciplines to identify and impede the ways in which we age. We are an independent, non-profit institution located in Marin County, CA, with the goal of increasing human healthspan, or the healthy years of life. Globally recognized as the pioneer and leader in efforts to target aging—the number one risk factor for diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, macular degeneration, heart disease, and diabetes—the Buck seeks to help people live better longer. We are an equal-opportunity employer and strive to create an atmosphere where diversity of identity, experience, and background are welcomed, valued, and supported. Candidates who contribute to this diversity are strongly encouraged to apply. Multi-user core equipment facilities including the Microscopy Core (directed by Dr. Akos Gerencser), Bioinformatics Core, Flow Cytometry Core, Single Cell Genomics Core, Proteomics Core, Metabolomics Core, Mouse Phenotyping and Behavioral Core support our research.

TO APPLY

Please apply online by submitting your CV along with a cover letter describing your research interests and contact information for 2 references.

For Additional Information

Akos Gerencser MD. Ph.D.

Director of the Morphology and Imaging Core

Associate Research Professor

T: (415) 209-2273

[email protected]