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Research Associate I (L,P,S)

  • 511227
  • Main Campus - Starkville, MS
  • Mississippi - Main Campus
  • 031100 - Biological Sciences
  • Professional
  • Regular Full-Time 12-month
  • Opening on: Sep 15 2026
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Position Function:

The Gout lab (https://sites.google.com/view/goutlab/home) is hiring a Research Associate in
computational biology to work on two NIH-funded projects in collaboration with the Vermulst lab at University of Southern California (USC). The first project (1R01AG083065) is focused on the potential role of transcription errors on the formation of amyloid and prion-like proteins. The second project is about temporal control of mitochondrial mutagenesis (1R01AG075130-
01). The candidate will be based in the Department of Biological Sciences at Mississippi State University, in Starkville, MS (USA) and will collaborate extensively with the Vermulst lab at USC.

Salary Grade:  13

Please see Staff Compensation Structure for salary ranges.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The candidate will assist in analyzing the large genomic datasets generated by these two projects. These analyzes can include using available tools and packages as well as developing new tools (in R, python or any other programming language) to process the specific types of data coming out of this research. The candidate is also expected to contribute to team discussions about experiments design, data interpretation and they will be actively involved in the writing of manuscripts reporting the results obtained.

Minimum Qualifications:

Strong computational skills, with proficiency in R and at least one other programming
language (ideally Python or C/C++). Proficiency in using high-performance
computing systems (command-based shell) Some experience in genomics/molecular
evolution. Highly motivated with the ability to work independently and contribute to a
collaborative environment. B.S. in computational biology or a related field by start date.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with developing R packages in the areas of genomics/molecular evolution.
Strong computer programming skills in Python and C/C++. Previous research experience in
genomics/transcriptomics. Interests in or experience with mentoring graduate and undergraduate students. M.S. in computational biology or a related field by start date.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

The successful candidate will demonstrate an ability to communicate with a diverse team of
researchers at Mississippi State University and University of Southern California. The
capacity to understand the diversity of experiments being done in these projects (transcriptomics, genomics, microscopy, and to clearly articulate the results and
interpretations of their results will be crucial to the success of this position. The candidate
will be presenting their results at regular online meetings between the Gout lab and
the Vermulst lab.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

No unusual physical requirements. Requires no heavy lifting, and nearly all work is performed in an indoor facility.

Instructions for Applying:

Apply online by submitting a cover letter and resume

Restricted Clause:

Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.

If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.

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