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Research Data Scientist

Pennsylvania State University

State College, PA
Full Time
Mid Level
62k-90k
9 days ago

Job Description

About the Role

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Research Data Scientist within the Department of Biobehavioral Health in the College of Health and Human Development. Under the direction of Dr. Idan Shalev, this position will work on federally funded projects, developing and executing computational workflows to analyze longitudinal multi-omic data. The role involves supporting data integration, quality control, statistical analysis of transcriptomic, metabolomic, and epigenetic datasets, ensuring methodological rigor, and contributing to high-quality, reproducible research outputs.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement statistical models and data workflows for analysis of transcriptomic, metabolomic, and epigenetic data across three longitudinal timepoints.
  • Conduct data integration and harmonization across multi-omic platforms, ensuring alignment with study protocols and cohort structures.
  • Perform quality control and preprocessing of raw omics datasets, including normalization, batch correction, and outlier detection, generating usable datasets for future analyses.
  • Generate publication-ready data visualizations and summary outputs for internal reporting, scientific publications, and grant progress updates.
  • Contribute to manuscripts and conference abstracts by preparing methods and results sections in collaboration with the study team.
  • Support onboarding and training of student researchers in computational methods and data management procedures.
  • Document analytical pipelines and code to ensure reproducibility and adherence to open science best practices.

Requirements

  • Proficiency in statistical analysis and modeling, including longitudinal data analysis and mixed-effects models.
  • Experience with multi-omic data analysis, including transcriptomic, metabolomic, and epigenetic datasets.
  • Skill in data preprocessing, including normalization, batch correction, and outlier detection.
  • Experience with data integration and harmonization across platforms and timepoints.
  • Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in data science, such as R or Python.
  • Ability to create publication-ready visualizations and summary outputs for diverse audiences.
  • Experience contributing to scientific manuscripts and conference presentations, especially methods and results sections.
  • Knowledge of reproducible research practices, including workflow documentation and version control (e.g., Git).
  • Familiarity with research design and methodology, particularly in child development, maltreatment, or early life adversity.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently within established research goals.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills for technical and collaborative work.
  • Ability to train and support junior team members, including onboarding and mentoring student researchers.
  • Experience working in interdisciplinary research teams.

Nice to Have

  • 1+ years of post-baccalaureate experience in statistical programming, bioinformatics, or data science, preferably in a research or academic setting.
  • Demonstrated experience working with high-dimensional biological data such as transcriptomics, metabolomics, or epigenetics.
  • Familiarity with longitudinal data analysis and reproducible research practices.
  • Experience working with data related to child development, child maltreatment, or early life adversity.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree
  • 1+ years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • No required certifications

Benefits & Perks

  • Salary range of $61,800.00 - $89,600.00.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Robust retirement plans.
  • Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
  • 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.

Working at Pennsylvania State University

Penn State is committed to advancing equity, respect, and belonging, fostering a culture of inclusion that supports individual uniqueness and community engagement. The university values diversity and strives to create an environment where all members can thrive.

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Job Details

Posted AtJul 15, 2025
Job CategoryData Science
Salary62k-90k
Job TypeFull Time
Work ModeOnsite
ExperienceMid Level

Job Skills

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About Pennsylvania State University

Website

psu.edu

Location

State College, PA

Industry

Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools

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