Bioinformatics Scientist

The Company Background
Embark is an early-stage, VC-backed startup launched in 2016. The company’s long- term vision is to end preventable diseases in pets. Starting with disruptive DNA genotyping technology and cutting-edge bioinformatics, Embark looks to discover and develop a new generation of breeding tools, novel genetic tests, clinical practice, and wellness regimens for pet care. The company believes that these revolutionary advancements in pet health may even have powerful applications in human healthcare.
Embark’s flagship product is a canine DNA test that provides a comprehensive genetic profile unmatched in scope or accuracy by any other test on the market today. The test is built around proprietary genotyping technology coupled with the world’s largest and fastest-growing canine DNA reference database. This allows Embark to use a simple saliva sample to report on an unprecedented range of health diagnostics, color and coat traits, breeding heritage, and wellness predictors. Taken together, these advantages make Embark “different-in-kind” to everything else on the market today and will be a uniquely powerful engine for scientific discovery.
Embark’s founders are recognized leaders in the canine genomics research community and bring more than a decade of field and lab work experience to the venture. The genesis of the company traces back to Dr. Adam Boyko’s work at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, one of the premier veterinary colleges in the world and an ongoing research partner of Embark.
Today, Embark is looking for scientists who will help it realize its long term vision… a vision driven by a deep passion and affinity for our canine companions and the intellectual thrill of opening new realms of scientific medical discovery through genetics.

The Position
Reporting to the Chief Science Officer, the Bioinformatics Scientist is expected to contribute to the company’s scientific vision and leadership, manage research projects, and help to develop new analytical tools for Embark’s bioinformatics pipeline. Near term, the company is focused on its flagship canine DNA test to establish a leadership position in canine genetic testing and research. Longer term, the company looks to achieve clear leadership in pet bioinformatics and –omics generally, expand Embark’s footprint in the veterinary testing and pharmaceutical industries, collaborate on human bioinformatics and pharma projects, and generally
drive scientific advancements that extend the brand across a broad range of
research areas. To achieve these goals a Bioinformatics Scientist at Embark will:
• Improve and expand the bioinformatics driving our premier canine DNA test and
research objectives
• Supervise and mentor junior scientific personnel to accelerate research discoveries,
and develop an environment where research can flourish
• Play a role in developing research strategies, operating plans, and corporate culture
• Pursue research projects of their own in accordance with Embark’s priorities
• Assist efforts to obtain funding for R&D efforts and to expand the science team
• Participate in scientific collaborations with canine organizations and with other
scientific organizations
The Qualifications
• A strong scientific vision and desire to build a team to accomplish that vision
• Ph.D. in genetics or related field
• A demonstrated capacity for managing research projects in the form of successful
grant applications and peer-reviewed research
• Research experience in statistical genetics with large datasets
• A keen interest in dogs
• Postdoctoral research experience helpful
• Previous start-up experience helpful

Compensation
Embark offers a dynamic work environment, filled with passionate entrepreneurs, leading edge science, and a world of exciting growth opportunities (and dogs!). Compensation for the Bioinformatics Scientist position includes a competitive base salary and equity under the terms of the company’s ESOP. Additional benefits, defined by applicable company policies include: generous vacation and medical/dental insurance programs.

Timing/Location
Embark is looking to fill this position as soon as possible after the close of Series A funding (expected by the end of May 2017). This position will be based at Embark’s Boston, MA area headquarters (precise location TBD) or Ithaca, NY headquarters. The position may require occasional overnight travel as partnerships and events require.

Notice
Embark Veterinary is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex, disability, ethnicity, race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
To apply, send a cover letter and resume (or curriculum vitae) to Dr. Aaron Sams (asams {at} embarkvet.com).