Bioinformatician (Synthetic Biology Group)

Berkeley Lab's (LBNL) Joint Genome Institute (JGI) has an opening for a Bioinformatician to join the Synthetic Biology Group!

In this exciting role, you will contribute to the design, development, and maintenance of software applications and databases that support synthetic biology initiatives. You will develop and evaluate software for DNA sequence design, data analyses, and project tracking, as well as integrating these tools into existing pipelines. Collaborating with members of the Synthetic Biology Group, you will design, test, and implement a high-throughput pipeline for the design, assembly, and analysis of synthetic gene parts and constructs.

Reporting to the DNA Synthesis Platform Lead, you will assess requirements and types of current synthetic design tools, enhancing them to meet project requirements, and develop interfaces that support broader use within the group. You will provide end users with guidance on both technical issues and the biological interpretation of data. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with various JGI groups on data analysis and facilitate the transfer of knowledge regarding relevant technologies and applications to JGI staff.

The JGI's mission is to provide the global research community with access to the most advanced integrative genome science capabilities in support of the DOEs research mission to solve the world's evolving energy and environmental challenges. The JGI supports projects in genome sequencing, synthesis, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and natural products in plants, fungi, algae, and microorganisms. This position is headquartered on the Lab's main site at the Integrative Genomics Building (IGB) (Virtual Tour).

This position has an anticipated start date of January 5, 2026.

We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

Why join Berkeley Lab?

We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:

• Exceptional health and retirement benefits, including pension or 401K-style plans
• A culture where you'll belong - we are invested in our teams!
• In addition to accruing vacation and sick time, we also have a Winter Holiday Shutdown every year.
• Parental bonding leave (for both mothers and fathers)
• Pet insurance

What You Will Do:

• Design, develop, and/or evaluate DNA design tools and user interface to support synthetic biology laboratory processes and project reporting.

• Interpret downstream data analysis and improve design software based on analytical findings.
• Prepare clear, concise, and accurate reports summarizing analyzed data.
• Maintain comprehensive and detailed documentation of all developed tools.
• Ensure that all developed tools feature user interfaces suitable for biologists.
• Present technical updates and analytical progress during weekly meetings.
• Adhere to and promote standard practices for version control, development/production separation, testing, and software release.
• Collaborate with other informatics groups to evaluate and implement existing tools where appropriate.
• Facilitate effective communication between biologists and software developers.
• Establish milestones for software development and delivery.
• Communicate regularly with users and supervisory staff regarding plans, progress, and project updates.
• Provide progress reports during regularly scheduled meetings.
• Train biologists in the use of design, data analysis, and data management tools.

What is Required:

• A Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent knowledge/training) in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, or a related discipline and a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience developing software for molecular biology or synthetic biology applications or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with relational database structure and management (e.g., SQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL).
• Demonstrated expertise working with assembled genomes and using alignment tools, visualization platforms, and other genome interrogation and analysis software.
• Experience with web development and related technologies (e.g., Javascript, ORMs)
• Proven adherence to software development best practices, including version control and code review.
• Demonstrated proficiency with both scripted and compiled programming languages (e.g., C/C++, Java, or others) in a Unix-based environment.
• Strong analytical skills including the ability to identify problems, troubleshoot, and demonstrate good judgement in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including experience organizing and presenting technical information to varying audiences.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills including experience collaborating with an interdisciplinary research team.

Desired Qualifications:

• A Master's Degree (or equivalent knowledge/training) in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, or a related discipline.
• Experience developing software for the analysis of DNA sequences or experimental data.
• Knowledge of general molecular biology techniques, DNA sequencing technologies, and genetics, or a related field.
• Demonstrated familiarity with state-of-the art laboratory automation systems.
• Familiarity with statistical tools and methods, as well as the interpretation of experimental data.

Additional Information:

• Application Deadline: For full consideration, please apply with a resume and cover letter describing your interest in this position by December 8, 2025.
• Appointment Type: This is a full time, exempt from overtime pay (monthly paid), 2 year (benefits eligible), Term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds, and ongoing operational needs.
• Salary Information: This position has a budgeted salary range of $117,132 - $146,400 annually, which fits within the full salary range of $117,132 - $197,676 annually for job code C70.2. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary will be commensurate with the final candidate's qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, and aligned with the internal peer group.
• Background Check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work Modality: This position will be performed onsite at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab located at 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).
• Relocation Assistance: This position is eligible for relocation assistance.
• Work Authorization: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Berkeley Lab does not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.