Bioinformatics Specialist (R26-42)

Location: Albany, NY Category: Research Foundation Careers Job Type: Full-time Posted On: Mon Jul 27 2026 Job Description:

State University of New York's Department of Chemistry and RNA Institute seeks a Bioinformatics Technician in the laboratory of Prof. Shenglong Zhang on the Albany Campus (SUNY Albany). The position is to accomplish development of next generation mass spectrometry-based RNA sequencing methods. This includes development of methods to directly sequence RNAs, to examine their associated modifications, and to explore the potential roles of RNA modifications, e.g., in COVID-19, cancer biology, and metabolic diseases. The candidate will join an NIH-funded interdisciplinary research project, and a team of scientist and engineers, e.g., from Columbia University and Cornell Medical School in NYC. The candidate will have ample opportunities to acquire and develop new skills, work closely in a supportive, highly collaborative, and energetic environment with the PIs and collaborators in both academia and industry, and communicate results to the scientific community through conference presentations, patents and peer-reviewed publications.

Job Duties:

Responsible for development of next generation mass spectrometry-based RNA sequencing methods:

• Develop of algorithms, data analysis pipeline to obtain the sequencing and modification information effectively from our mass spectrometry-based data

• Develop data separation and sequencing algorithms

• Perform MS-based RNA sequencing data analysis and sequence generation, assembly, and alignment

• Assist in chemical experiments

• LC-MS data acquisition and collection

Responsible for the folllowing:

• Prepare high-quality figures, data visualizations, and illustrations for publications and presentations.

• Assist with writing, editing, and proofreading of: research manuscripts, book chapters, grant proposals, abstracts and posters, oral presentations.

• Synthesize complex scientific results into clear, concise, and accurate technical writing.

• Work closely with the PI and collaborators to ensure scientific rigor and clarity in all research deliverables

Job Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, Chemistry, or related field, from a college or university accredited by the US Department of Education or other internationally recognized accrediting organization.

• Proficiency with Python, R, or similar programming languages.

• Experience with large-scale biological data analysis (omics, MS, RNA sequencing, etc.)

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mass spectrometry data analysis.

• Background in RNA biology, sequencing technologies, or epitranscriptomics.

• Familiarity with machine learning, cloud computing, or algorithm development.

• Prior authorship on scientific publications

Additional Information:

Salary Range: $55,000-$60,000(DOE)

Federal law and regulations require notice to all prospective employees regarding crimes that have occurred on campus in the current three-year period. Please refer to the following website for the complete Annual Security Report ("Clery Report"): http://police.albany.edu/asr.htm

As an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer, The Research Foundation for SUNY will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, physical and mental disability, criminal record, genetic information, predisposition or carrier status, status with respect to receiving public assistance, domestic violence victim status, a disabled, special, recently separated, active duty wartime, campaign badge, Armed Forces service medal veteran, or any other characteristics protected under applicable law.

The Research Foundation for The State University of New York offers exceptional benefits such as healthcare, dental, vision, pension plans, competitive pay, generous paid time off, tuition assistance, life insurance and long-term disability insurance. The University at Albany offers a variety of performing arts, world class libraries, and competitive sporting events.