Director, Center for Genomics and Data Science Research

National Human Genome Research Institute

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), a major research component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), seeks to identify an outstanding Director to lead its Center for Genomics and Data Science Research (CGDSR) within the Division of Intramural Research, located in Bethesda, Maryland.  The CGDSR: 1) Develops and utilizes cutting-edge computational methods and approaches that analyze all possible sources of biomedical, environmental, and clinical data, with an emphasis on multiomics data (including genomic, proteomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and microbiome data); 2) Studies the impact of sequence variation, both germline and somatic, as it pertains to functional regions of the human genome, and further clarify the relationships between genomic variation and phenotype, including consideration of environmental influences; 3) Plans and conducts research in basic and applied genomics, comparative genomics, bioinformatics, and genomic/precision medicine, focusing on data-intensive problems in genomics; 4) Develops and disseminates new data science technologies, algorithms, and high-quality resources, in particular those relevant to human genomics and genomic medicine; and 5) Serves as a focal point for research and training at The Forefront of Genomics, with an emphasis on computational genomics, genome-sequence assembly, epigenomics, population genomics, functional genomics, genomic variant identification, pangenomics, single-cell genomics, and biostatistics.

The Center Director will provide both scientific and administrative leadership of research groups within the Center, and they are expected to be an internationally recognized, highly accomplished researcher in genomics, with well-respected expertise in cutting-edge computational methods and approaches.  The Center Director will have the opportunity to maintain an active research group as part of the Center.  

The Center Director will be responsible for creating and maintaining a research environment that encourages creativity and collaboration among the Center and the broader NHGRI Intramural Research Program; for nurturing an inclusive and diverse environment for staff and trainees at all levels; providing effective administrative management; and being an active and valued member of the overall NHGRI leadership team.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: The incumbent must have remarkable academic credentials in the fields of genomics, genetics, bioinformatics, computational biology, data science, machine learning and artificial intelligence, and/or molecular biology, as evidenced by an advanced degree at the Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent level; a well-recognized track record of leading successful research projects; and an extensive publication record.  Evidence of leadership of national or international research consortia are also important considerations for the position. The incumbent will be appointed as a tenure-eligible Senior Investigator. Applications should have a compelling vision for the future of the field of genomics and data science.  Ideally, applicants will have proven experience in directing and managing a research program and will have well-honed administrative and interpersonal skills; be highly skilled in facilitating productive interactions among researchers; possess the credentials to lead research; and have the ability to serve as a spokesperson for ongoing research within the NHGRI Intramural Research Program.  Top candidates must have the ability to provide strong mentorship and to create opportunities in support of a diverse workforce, possessing a record of previous accomplishments in these areas. Applicants should be known and respected within their profession, both nationally and internationally, as distinguished individuals of outstanding scientific competence and integrity.  

SALARY/BENEFITS: Salary is competitive and will be commensurate with the candidate’s experience.  A full Federal benefits package is available, including retirement, health and life insurance, long-term care insurance, annual and sick leave, and the Thrift Savings Plan (401K equivalent).  

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT: Selection for this position will be based solely on merit, with no discrimination for non-merit reasons such as race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, age, or membership or non-membership in an employee organization.  The NIH encourages applications from qualified women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities.

HOW TO APPLY: Interested applicants should submit a cover letter that includes a brief description of research and administrative experience, a current curriculum vitae and bibliography, names and contact information of five references, and a two-page written vision for leading CGDSR.  Please include in your CV a description of mentoring and outreach activities in which you have been involved, especially those involving women and persons from racial/ethnic or other groups that are underrepresented in biomedical research. Questions about the position and the application process should be sent to Mr. Paul Cheung via email at [email protected].  All information provided by the candidate will remain confidential and will not be released outside the NHGRI search process without a signed release from the candidate.  

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION:  NIH provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.  If you require reasonable accommodations during any part of the application and hiring process, please notify us.  The decision on granting reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT/FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE:  The NIH inspires public confidence in our science by maintaining high ethical principles. NIH employees are subject to Federal government-wide regulations and statutes, as well as agency-specific regulations.

DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR BIRTH DATE OR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER ON APPLICATION MATERIALS.

DHHS AND NIH ARE EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYERS.

Applications will be reviewed starting 08/21/2023 and will be accepted until the position is filled.