Data & Bioinformatics Scientist

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

Founded in 2016, Checkerspot set out with a bold mission: to harness biotechnology to unlock the power of nature's molecular building blocks. From the start, the company has focused on developing high-performance fats and oils that aren't easily or sustainably sourced from nature, using precision fermentation to bring innovative solutions to market.

Whether in food, nutrition, or beyond, Checkerspot has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible – proving that science and sustainability can drive real-world impact.

COMPANY CULTURE

Our company culture can best be understood through experience. Come get to know us We'd like to be known more by
what we do
than
what we say
.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

We seek an enthusiastic, team-oriented problem solver to join our Technology and R&D group as a Data & Bioinformatics Scientist. This position is leveled from Staff Scientist through Principal Scientist, with the final appointment and title determined by the successful candidate's qualifications and depth of experience. Key responsibilities will include:

• Coordinate with the Molecular Biology Team and Sequencing CROs to guide and implement tools for analyzing Whole Genome Sequencing data, including haplotyping, gene annotation, variant analysis and construction of reference genomes through a combination of existing genome assemblies, additional sequencing data, and rationally derived engineering steps
• Support implementation and customization of an ELN/LIMS
• Map RNAseq data onto intron-containing reference genomes; perform differential gene expression analyses using RNAseq data derived from platform organisms grown under different experimental conditions
• Using computational techniques (e.g., Ancestral sequence reconstruction, molecular phylogeny), assist the Molecular Biology Team in gene discovery efforts in non-model eukaryotic microbes.
• Develop user-friendly database visualization tools
• Apply appropriate statistical methods to extract scientifically sound conclusions
• Identify or develop software solutions to recurring strain engineering, fermentation and analytical lab processes
• Assist in structure-function analyses of enzymes and structure-guided design of protein mutants for increased expression and activity
• Advise on the development and maintenance of local and cloud-based IT infrastructure to support current and future bioinformatics efforts
• Produce high-quality documentation for newly developed approaches
• Assist in the preparation of written examples for IP and regulatory filings

KEY REQUIREMENTS

• The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in both biology and data science. We are seeking a PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Systems Biology, Genetics, or a related field, with at least 3 years of industry experience; or a Master's degree in the above or quantitative fields (e.g., Physics, Computer Science, or Statistics) with at least 5 years of industry experience. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree in the above or quantitative fields with 7 years of bioinformatics and/or data science experience, are also highly encouraged to apply.
• A deep appreciation that bioinformatics must generate actionable data and insights that support efforts at the bench
• Proficiency in Python or other relevant programming languages in a Unix environment
• Experience with cloud computing and database management
• Experience in novel gene discovery and/or comparative phylogenomics, metabolomics, and/or gene expression analysis
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Experience with ELN/LIMS implementation and management
• Experience with the Geneious Prime suite of molecular biology and sequence analysis tools is a plus but not required
• Ability to manage large datasets and draw conclusions from them
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Committed to the highest standards for protecting data integrity and security
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis (We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment visas at this time.)

BENEFITS

Checkerspot offers its employees a competitive benefits and compensation package. The salary range for this role is $160,000 to $188,000 per year with final determination commensurate with relevant education and experience.

Checkerspot is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, genetic information, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis.