University of Hawaii at Manoa · 11 hours ago
Postdoctoral Researcher (Computational Phylogenetics))
Honolulu, HI
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$6,250/mo - $7,000/mo
1+ years expUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa is seeking a highly skilled computational expert for the Pipes Laboratory. The role focuses on developing and implementing sophisticated algorithms and statistical models to analyze large-scale sequencing data for environmental and public health projects.
EducationHigher Education
Responsibilities
Lead the design, development, and optimization of scalable statistical phylogenetic methods for analyzing large-scale sequencing data from environmental and public health projects (e.g., wastewater surveillance, microbial ecology)
Engineer novel algorithms and extend existing computational frameworks for complex tasks like species assignment and the creation of custom, scalable metabarcoding databases
Implement and deploy robust, efficient data analysis pipelines in a High-Performance Computing (HPC) environment, focusing on scalability and reproducibility
Apply rigorous statistical modeling and machine learning techniques to extract meaningful insights from complex biological datasets
Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals detailing novel computational/statistical methodologies and findings
Present technical findings and software/algorithm designs at scientific conferences and internal meetings
Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, translating biological questions into well-defined computational and statistical problems
Mentor students in programming, data analysis, and computational best practices
Contribute to lab management, particularly regarding computational infrastructure and data resources, and assist in developing new research projects that leverage advanced computational and statistical approaches
Qualification
Required
PhD from an accredited college or university in Computer Science, Statistics, Computational Biology, or a related quantitative field (e.g., Physics, Applied Mathematics with strong computational/statistical thesis work)
A PhD in Biology will be considered if accompanied by demonstrable, deep expertise and a significant track record in statistical phylogenetics, software development, algorithm design, and advanced statistical analysis
One to three (1-3) years of experience focused on developing and applying computational algorithms, statistical models, and software tools for complex data analysis
Experience with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) data is highly advantageous, but strong foundational skills in programming, algorithm development, and statistics are paramount
Expert-level proficiency in programming languages such as C/C++, Python, and/or R
Strong theoretical and practical understanding of algorithm design, data structures, computational complexity, and software optimization techniques
In-depth knowledge of statistical principles, modeling techniques (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, Bayesian methods), and machine learning algorithms
Familiarity with computational biology concepts, particularly in the context of analyzing next-generation sequencing data, and phylogenetic analysis techniques (maximum likelihood, Bayesian) is a plus
Proven ability to independently design, develop, implement, and optimize sophisticated computational methods and statistical analyses for large-scale datasets
Strong experience in developing and managing computational pipelines in a High-Performance Computing (HPC) environment
Strong theoretical understanding of phylogenetic statistics, including substitution models, likelihood theory, Bayesian MCMC, and coalescent theory
Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and debugging skills for complex computational and statistical challenges
Must be able to work independently, manage multiple technically demanding tasks effectively, and troubleshoot complex software and data issues
Must be able to complete the UH Title IX training within twelve (12) months from date of hire
Must be able to complete the UH Information Security Awareness Training (ISAT) within two (2) weeks from date of hire, and re-certify every twelve (12) months
Ability to work at a computer for extended periods, performing tasks that require sustained focus, attention to detail, and precision
As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings
Preferred
Experience with software development best practices (e.g., version control with Git, unit testing, code documentation)
Proficiency in Linux/Unix environments and advanced shell scripting
Demonstrated ability to independently write scientific papers focusing on computational or statistical methodology
Strong verbal communication skills for conveying complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
Benefits
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Vision insurance
Company
University of Hawaii at Manoa
The University of Hawaii at Manoa provides research opportunities, a diverse community, a nationally ranked athletics program, and more.
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
University of Hawaii at Manoa has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
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Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (83)
2024 (59)
2023 (36)
2022 (47)
2021 (27)
2020 (16)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$47.15MKey Investors
U.S. Department of AgricultureNational Endowment for the Humanities (NEH)
2023-06-21Grant· $7M
2023-01-10Grant· $0.15M
2022-10-04Grant· $40M
Leadership Team
Tim Dolan
CEO, University of Hawai’i Foundation, Vice President of Advancement
Jennifer Engels
Co-founder, Chief Strategist, Spokesperson - Women in SOEST
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