Bioinformatics Career Paths

Bioinformatics has many broad areas for career movement. Some of these areas include;

Bioinformatician

This will involve the acquisition and analyzing of data from collaborators, public databases, and genome projects, and scientific publications.

Biomedical Computer Scientist

The role would involve the design and development of programs and/or databases to be used in biological field. Strong programming skills usually a requirement for this role.

Geneticist

These usually fall into three categories – Research Geneticist, Laboratory Geneticist and Genetic Counselors. The first two usually bioinformatics degrees at Graduate level and all require a strong understating of genetics.

Computational Biologist

Computational Biologist develop computational tools and methods to solve complex theoretical and mathematical problems as they relate to interpreting genomic information. Knowledge of correlation in statistical and mathematical analyses with genetic and biological information. A bioinformatics biologist would have to collaborate with other researchers and departments and some of his or her duties would include development of  tools that would support research objectives, the compilation and analysis of data, including writing and editing reports for journal publication as needed.

Biostatistician

A biostatistician responsibilities include reviewing potential bioinformatics publications for statistical accuracy, and writing reports for in-house team members and collaborators, as well as information gathering on various studies. At a higher level they would ensure the consistent application of statistical analysis across different studies. Experience with a wide range of statistical methods, such as ANOVA, logistic regression analysis, survival analysis, linkage analysis, and multivariate analysis would be necessary. Proficiency in SPlus or SAS  (computer based statistical analysis tools)might be necessary in some positions.

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Biomedical Chemist

Biomedical Chemists analyze pharmaceutical materials for quality, purity and strength. They use approved methodology and observe safety practices. They produce sample batches of a drug for trouble-shooting and help design the scaling-up process that takes drug manufacture up to factory proportions. Advanced positions require extensive record keeping and the supervision and integration of a lab team.

Clinical Data Manager

The Clinical Data Manager uses complex computer systems within bioinformatics environments would need to possess analytical skill to detect and resolve data problems in clinical research studies. A good understanding of the data generated in a clinical research study, methodologies for data storage, reviewing data, database design and testing, and the ability to extract information are all skills that a CDM must have.

Molecular Microbiologist

The Microbiologist will support efforts to characterize pathogenic bacteria.  The Microbiologist will determine bacterial/spore resistance to standard and novel antimicrobials and decontaminants various conditions. A Bachelor of Science in Microbiology with experience in general microbiology is sometimes required.

Software/Database Programmer

The bioinformatics programmer is responsible for performing analyses on data from genomic and other biological databases, clinical trials and other sources, including listings, tabulations, graphical summaries and formal statistical estimates and tests. Ability to assess quality of analysis data, perform cross study analyses and be able to create and use/write SAS macros to automate all of the above functions. Additionally, the person in this role will design and create analysis databases. A thorough knowledge of study design and protocol requirements is fundamental.

Medical Writer/Technical Writer

The duties of the medical writer comprise assisting  departments in the preparation and writing of documents required for regulatory submissions, writing study protocol and other documents needed for clinical studies, and clinical study reports in accordance with regulatory guidelines.  Other tasks include Drafting and coordinating the preparation of manuscripts for publication. A Master’s or PhD Degree is usually required for this position.

Research Associates and Research Scientists

An advanced degree required is needed. Research Associates participate in and contribute to a scientific objective. He or She must be conversant with laboratory equipment and software use as well as safety and protocols. Research Associates also monitor and collect clinical trial data; coordinate designed trials; and prepare written reports, protocols, and study tracking documents. They are responsible for overall site management, including conducting initiation, interim, and close-out visits. A high level of interaction is required with physicians, pharmaceutical companies. Reviewing study documentation and ensuring compliance with clinical objectives and procedures is also a requirement for this role.