Quantitative Geneticist

Employment Type: Full-time

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Position Overview

The Quantitative Geneticist will be a vital member of Neogen Corporation's Livestock Genomics Team, contributing to the advancement of our livestock genomics program through expertise in data control, genomic data analysis, pipeline development, and the delivery of genetic results to key stakeholders. The successful candidate will design and implement data quality control processes and apply quantitative genetic methods to animal breeding programs, helping to shape the future of livestock breeding. The incumbent will bring deep knowledge of quantitative genetics, animal breeding, and proficiency in tools such as SQL, UNIX/Linux, Bash scripts, BLUPF90, BOLT, ASReml, GCTA, and other programming languages, with hands-on experience applying these methods in commercial breeding programs across various livestock species.

Essential Functions

• Create innovative genomic prediction models by leveraging cutting-edge data science methodologies, advanced analytics, and diverse data integration.
• Incorporate biological domain knowledge to ensure models are scientifically sound and effective for genetic prediction in livestock species.
• Quickly grasp product, research, and development goals and actively contribute to the development process by applying quantitative genetics to inform and drive key breeding decisions in collaboration with internal teams.
• Work closely with the data quality team to identify and resolve issues, maintaining rigorous standards as datasets expand and evolve.
• Apply advanced techniques in Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and Molecular Breeding Value (MBV) analysis to enhance genetic improvement strategies for livestock species.
• Utilize model outputs to provide clear, data-driven insights, recommendations, and solutions that influence breeding decisions, product development, and strategic planning.
• Develop and maintain code and computational pipelines, ensuring adherence to industry best practices and organizational standards.
• Collaborate with teams to design data generation, collection, and integration processes to support ongoing and future research projects.
• Manage the execution of genetic evaluations, ensuring that they are conducted in a timely, accurate, and efficient manner.
• Communicate complex genetic evaluation results clearly and concisely to internal and external stakeholders, including customers, using data visualization and presentation tools to enhance understanding and decision-making.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Animal Breeding, Quantitative Genetics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3+ years of experience in the cattle sector (beef and/or dairy), with a strong background in genetic/genomic evaluations and animal breeding programs.
• Experience with national or global livestock genetic evaluations and implementing technologies for genetic improvement.
• Expertise in genetic prediction and selection methods, including variance component estimation, genotype imputation, and analyses of genetic architecture of complex traits.
• Proficient in SQL, Linux, Bash scripts, and high-performance computing; experience with BLUPF90, BOLT, ASReml, or GCTA.
• Advanced programming skills in R, Python, or similar languages relevant to phenotypic and genotypic data analyses.
• Strong technical writing, presentation, and communication skills; ability to clearly convey information to diverse audiences and collaborate effectively across teams.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and work autonomously or within cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities in a self-directed work environment, with a focus on driving performance and innovation.
• Knowledge and experience with database management systems and relevant software applications.
• Ability to travel 40-50% of the time.

Company Information

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