Postdoctoral Associate – Computational Genomics

About the role

The University of Maryland’s Patro Lab seeks a motivated Postdoctoral Associate to lead innovative computational research in high‑throughput genomics. You will develop novel algorithms and high‑performance software for single‑cell RNA‑seq and ATAC‑seq analysis, as well as explore long‑read sequencing and foundational data‑structural challenges.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement new computational methods for processing large‑scale sequencing data.
• Write robust, efficient code in Rust, C, C++ or Zig and integrate tools with existing lab software.
• Prepare, write, and edit scientific manuscripts describing methodological advances.
• Collaborate with lab members, co‑mentor PhD students, and contribute to grant proposals (NSF, NIH, etc.).

Required profile

• PhD in Computer Science or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated independent research in algorithmic genomics with peer‑reviewed publications.
• Experience handling large genomics datasets and developing software in compiled, statically‑typed languages.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Required skills

• Rust, C, C++, Zig programming.
• Algorithmic genomics and high‑throughput sequencing analysis.
• Compact and succinct data structures.
• High‑dimensional statistical inference (generative graphical models, maximum‑likelihood, Bayesian methods).
• Unix command‑line tools and workflow systems such as Nextflow or Snakemake.
• Data analysis and visualization for genomics data.

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead independent research projects.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art computing resources.
• Collaborative, open‑science environment with free and open‑source software development.