Senior Bioinformatics Scientist - Viral Diseases

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Senior Bioinformatics Scientist to contribute to the advancement of Bioinformatics, particularly in the areas of Genomics and Metagenomics. As the Lead of the Global Infectious Diseases (Global ID) Viral Genomics and Bioinformatics Department at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), Viral Diseases Program (VDP), you provide strategic leadership and scientific expertise in the application of cutting-edge genomic technologies and bioinformatic approaches to address critical challenges in viral disease research and surveillance.

This role involves leading a team of bioinformaticians, managing complex projects, fostering collaborations, and contributing to the development of novel solutions for global health security. You will serve as a subject matter expert, providing guidance and support to internal and external partners, and driving innovation in genomic epidemiology and surveillance. This position requires a deep understanding of viral genomics, bioinformatics, and infectious disease research, particularly in military medicine.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• Strategic Leadership: Lead the Viral Genomics section, manage talent, allocate resources, and foster a high-performing team culture.
• Genomic surveillance: Develop and implement genomic surveillance strategies for military and public health-relevant viruses; integrate genomic and epidemiological data to guide interventions.
• Research & Innovation: Design and execute research on viral evolution, pathogen discovery, and bioinformatics tool development; secure funding and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Data Analysis: Oversee sequencing data analysis, including phylogenetic and phylodynamic methods to support surveillance and outbreak response.
• Collaborations: Build partnerships with academia, government, and industry; represent WRAIR at scientific and international forums.
• Capacity Building: Support overseas labs in sequencing and bioinformatics through training, assessments, and remote support.
• Subject Matter Expertise: Provide expert guidance in viral genomics and bioinformatics; contribute to vaccine development and clinical research.
• Data Infrastructure: Manage databases and computational resources; ensure data security and accessibility in coordination with IT teams.
• Publications & Outreach: Publish research, present findings, and review grants/manuscripts for journals and funding bodies.
• Compliance & SOPs: Develop and maintain SOPs and protocols; ensure adherence to regulatory and ethical standards.

Education and Experience

• Masters Degree in Bioinformatics or related is required. Doctorate Degree in Biological Sciences preferred.
• Minimum of 6-8 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Extensive experience in viral genomics, bioinformatics, and infectious disease research.
• Proven leadership and management skills, with experience leading and mentoring a team of bioinformaticians and junior scientist.
• Demonstrated ability to secure funding through grant writing and manage research budgets.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in developing and implementing genomic surveillance strategies.
• Expertise in data analysis and interpretation, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and including advanced phylogenetic and phylodynamic analysis.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The annual salary range for this position is $88,600-$146,000. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.