Research Bioinformatician-Hybrid (6 Months Contract Role)

Research Bioinformatician-Hybrid (6 Months Contract Role)

• Industry: Pharma/Biotech/Clinical Research
• Work Experience: 4-5 years
• City: Dublin
• State/Province: Dublin
• Country: Ireland

Role Overview

The DNA Research team develops innovative nucleic-acid-based solutions for animal identification, traceability, and population analysis across the livestock and companion animal sectors. Working closely with commercial operations, the successful candidate will support research, technical innovation, and method development through a combination of computational bioinformatics and hands on laboratory work.

This is a discovery-focused position requiring expertise in genomic data analysis, DNA technologies, and laboratory techniques. The role combines desk-based data analysis with bench-based molecular biology work to support ongoing research projects and process improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyse and interpret complex genomic datasets generated from Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and SNP array technologies.
• Develop, implement, and maintain bioinformatics pipelines and reproducible data analysis workflows.
• Perform in-depth data exploration to generate insights that support research, sample upscaling, and process optimisation.
• Develop computational methods for processing, managing, and visualising large-scale genomic datasets.
• Prepare, quality check (QC), and run DNA libraries for Next Generation Sequencing.
• Process complex DNA samples using specialised laboratory equipment.
• Support laboratory-based research activities alongside computational analysis.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary scientists and stakeholders to design experiments, interpret results, and generate new research hypotheses.
• Provide technical guidance, training, and support to colleagues across DNA operations on bioinformatics tools and resources.
• Contribute to innovation initiatives and continuous improvement of DNA research processes.

Technical Skills

• Strong background in molecular genetics, genomics, or DNA research.
• Hands on experience with library preparation for Next Generation Sequencing (NGS).
• Experience analysing and interpreting large genomic datasets.
• Knowledge of computational genomics and bioinformatics workflows.
• Experience working with DNA profile identification, population genetics, or animal genetics is highly desirable.
• Ability to generate meaningful insights from raw data rather than relying solely on existing pipelines.

Professional Skills

• Excellent analytical and problem solving abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a collaborative research environment and deliver against deadlines.
• Innovative mindset with a passion for scientific discovery and process improvement.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree (MSc or PhD) in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, or a related scientific discipline.
• PhD candidates are strongly preferred.
• Candidates from Trinity College Dublin (TCD) or University College Dublin (UCD) are particularly encouraged to apply.
• Relevant industry experience within animal genetics or related sectors will also be considered.

Working Arrangement

• Initial 6 month contract with strong potential of an extension.
• Hybrid working model with 3 days per week onsite (mandatory).
• Immediate or ASAP availability is highly desirable to facilitate knowledge transfer before the current team member departs.
• Join a collaborative DNA Research team of five specialists with diverse scientific and engineering backgrounds.
• Opportunity to work across both computational bioinformatics and laboratory research in a highly innovative environment.
• Strong focus on scientific discovery, continuous improvement, and technical innovation.
• Mandatory onsite attendance 3 days per week; candidates should have a reasonable commute.