BFF-AFIRMS Data Scientist

BFF-AFIRMS Data Scientist

University of Alberta

This position is a part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

In accordance with the collective agreement, this position has an approximate appointment of three years and offers a comprehensive benefits package found at University of Alberta Benefits and an annual salary range of $87,013 to $97,890.

Location: This role is in person. Work primarily takes place at North Campus Edmonton.

Position Overview: BFF-AFIRMS invites applications for a highly skilled Data Scientist to design, implement, and manage a state-of-the-art relational database system for BFF-AFIRMS. The successful candidate will have deep expertise in database architecture, relational data management, and cutting-edge technologies to ensure optimal performance, scalability, and reliability of our integrative data systems. In the era of high-throughput biology and data-driven decision science, the candidate will lead a computational effort to integrate BFF-AFIRMS' multi-dimensional data and provide decision support for policymaking for tree improvement and forest genetic resource management.

This position is for 3 years, for a specific research project, working with 2 other potential postdoc fellows or research associates reporting to Dr. Barb Thomas, the PI and budget holder. This project is working with Dr. Charles Chen at Oklahoma State University and therefore travel may be required to visit the USA.

Duties:

1. Design and implement a scalable, high-performance relational database system to support the BFF-AFIRMS project's diverse data needs, including genomic, phenotypic, and environmental data.
2. Develop and maintain robust database schemas, data models, and relationships to efficiently manage large volumes of complex data.
3. Optimize database performance through advanced indexing, query tuning, and data normalization techniques.
4. Ensure data integrity, security, and compliance with best practices and industry and government standards.
5. Collaborate with the Government of Alberta and Tree Improvement of Alberta, BFF-AFIRMS bioinformaticians and quantitative geneticists, and other stakeholders to integrate data from multiple sources and support advanced analytical and decision-support tools.
6. Troubleshoot and resolve database issues, including performance bottlenecks, data inconsistencies, and system errors.
7. Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in database technologies and incorporate innovative solutions to enhance database functionality and efficiency.

Qualifications:

1. Ph.D. in Computer Science, Database Engineering, Computational Biology, or a related field.
2. Minimum 3 years of hands-on experience in database design and engineering, administration, and operational support.
3. Proficiency in traditional RDMS (Relational Database Management System) technologies such as PostgreSQL, MySQL, Oracle, or SQL Server.
4. Expertise in SQL and database design principles, including data modeling, normalization, optimization, and indexing.
5. Knowledge of data warehousing, ETL processes, and integration techniques.
6. Familiarity with genomic data and large-scale sequence analysis is highly desirable.
7. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, excellent communication skills in a multi-disciplinary team, and a passion for translational science.
8. Willingness (and ability) to travel between the US and Canada.
9. Experience with plant breeding and biological databases is preferred but not required.

To apply, please visit: Application Link

The University of Alberta is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons; members of visible minority groups; persons with disabilities; persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression; and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.