Senior Scientist in Biological Systems Signatures
Organization and Job ID

Job Description
Are you ready to transform the world through discovery and innovation? At the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) we work on the biggest challenges in fundamental science and national security every day. Our scientists and researchers work in a collaborative environment, taking courageous and creative approaches to impact our nations most intractable scientific challenges in securing our homeland, reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and protecting our natural resources.
We are currently seeking a Senior Scientist with experimental and modeling expertise in biological systems design and engineering to lead a team of researchers in applying signature discovery methods to cellular metabolic networks and microbial communities. The goal of this project is to construct, test, and detect signatures in biological systems for the purpose of characterizing and predicting system state for applications such as bioprocess design and scale-up, commensal and pathogenic host-microbe interactions, and environmental monitoring and remediation.
This project is one of several research challenge projects associated with the ongoing PNNL Signature Discovery Initiative (). A signature is a collection of features designed to detect, characterize, or predict a phenomenon of interest. These challenge projects are intended to test our domain-agnostic approach to signature discovery by demonstrating its application and impact on multiple important research challenges. The goal of the Signature Discovery Initiative is to develop generalized methods for signature construction, validation and detection. These methods will make the signature discovery process 1) more efficient by reducing trial-and-error and decreasing the time to discover a signature, 2) more economical, by delivering methods and tools that allow users to reuse, rather than reinvent, the resources needed to construct, detect, and validate signatures, 3) and more rigorous, by providing robust and well-defined processes for signature discovery.
In addition to providing internal research leadership, this position will include directing research projects and developing proposals for external funding. The Scientist will work with our other senior scientists, research leaders and management in developing strategies for advancing research, lead proposal development, deliver new technologies and capabilities, and interact with key clients. The successful candidate will also oversee the transition of these concepts to practice and funded programs within the national/international community.
Job ID: 302075
Minimum Requirements
Scientist, Level IV
- Minimum Education Requirement: BS 7+ years experience, MS 5+ years experience, PhD 3+ years experience
- Technical Expertise: Technical expert. Selects and widely applies principles, theories and concepts in major field of specialization.
- Level of Responsibility: Fully competent scientist/engineer contributing to science and technology solutions in the conventional aspects of discipline specialty. PI or Co-PI on multiple or significant projects or tasks.
- Breadth of Technical Knowledge: Understands the application of domain skills and knowledge. Directs technical projects that may involve multi-disciplinary activities.
Scientist, Level V
- Minimum Education Requirement: BS 9+ years experience, MS 7+ years experience, PhD 5+ years experience
- Technical Expertise: National or international authority. Applies intensive and diversified knowledge of scientific or engineering principles in broad areas of assignments and related fields.
- Level of Responsibility: Exercises an identifiable expertise by making significant and progressive contributions.
- Breadth of Technical Knowledge: Advances state of the art technologies and concepts.
Qualifications
A Ph.D. in bioengineering, computational biology, microbiology, or an equivalent field with 5+ years experience and a substantial publication record is required. Successful applicants will have an understanding of and practical experience in computational and experimental approaches to biological systems engineering at the cellular and/or microbial community scale. Candidates must have clear potential and demonstrated experience in cutting-edge research in biological sciences and engineering.
There will be a review of a candidate''s academic and research credentials by an appropriate peer committee before an offer can be extended.
Technical contributions must be recognized as having a substantial impact on advancing the current state of knowledge and understanding in biological scientific or technical disciplines with a demonstrated track record in innovative biological research and discovery.
Demonstrated leadership, networking, organizational, negotiating, communications, and mentoring skills, coupled with the desire and ability to interact with clients, prepare successful research proposals, and define future research directions.
An established publication record is required, as is a demonstrated track record of successful capability and funding development.
Candidates must be able to represent the Laboratory in signature science at national and international events.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer and supports diversity in the workplace.
All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information.
All staff at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory must be able to demonstrate the legal right to work in the United States