Research Data Scientist - Penn State University : Job Details

The Department of Biobehavioral Health in the College of Health and Human Development is seeking a Research Data Scientist. Under the direction of Dr. Idan Shalev, this position will work on federally funded projects and lead the development and execution of computational workflows to analyze longitudinal multi-omic data. This position will support the integration, quality control, and statistical analysis of transcriptomic, metabolomic, and epigenetic datasets across time, ensure methodological rigor in testing study hypotheses, and contribute to the generation of reproducible, high-quality research outputs.

What You'll Do:

• 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.

Skills You Have:

• 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.

Desired Qualifications:

• 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 is expected.
• Experience working with data related to child development, child maltreatment, or early life adversity is strongly preferred.

Schedule:

This position is located on-site at the Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications:

Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Required Certifications: None.

Application Instructions:

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, and the contact information for three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Background Checks/Clearances:

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits:

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $61,800.00 - $89,600.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

Campus Security Crime Statistics:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO Is The Law:

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-###-####.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.