Software Developer - Genomics & Bioinformatics at Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research – Ithaca, New York

Software Developer - Genomics & Bioinformatics

Buckler Laboratory, Boyce Thompson Institute

Position Overview

The Buckler Lab at the Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI) seeks a skilled Software Developer to join our dynamic team focused on plant genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and AI research. Our lab, based at BTI, Cornell, and USDA-ARS, conducts cutting-edge research working to address three main questions: How can we use genetics to make agriculture more efficient and share those efficiencies globally? How can we reduce the impact of agriculture on the environment? How does genetic variation give rise to phenotypic variation?

Our development team creates and maintains cutting-edge software and AI tools for genomic analysis and data management, serving our laboratory, plant breeding programs, and the broader genetics research community.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop new features and enhance existing genomic analysis software tools
• Maintain and optimize legacy systems to ensure continued functionality
• Collaborate with researchers and external partners to identify requirements and implement solutions
• Conduct thorough unit testing and participate in code review processes
• Lead development initiatives on assigned projects under senior developer guidance
• Prepare technical demonstrations for internal teams and external collaborators
• Work collaboratively within a multi-developer team environment

What We Offer

Join a collaborative, innovative research environment where your technical skills will directly contribute to advancing agricultural science and addressing global food security challenges.

Salary Range - $85,000 - $109,000 (within range determined by experience and/or advanced degree)

Remote work option not available, must work onsite in Ithaca, NY

Key Responsibilities

• Develop new features and enhance existing genomic analysis software tools
• Maintain and optimize legacy systems to ensure continued functionality
• Collaborate with researchers and external partners to identify requirements and implement solutions
• Conduct thorough unit testing and participate in code review processes
• Lead development initiatives on assigned projects under senior developer guidance
• Prepare technical demonstrations for internal teams and external collaborators
• Work collaboratively within a multi-developer team environment

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Bioinformatics, or related field
• 2-4 years of professional software development experience
• Proficiency in Java, Kotlin, and/or Python
• Experience with SQL databases (PostgreSQL, SQLite, etc.)
• Hands-on experience with containerization technologies (Docker, Singularity, Conda, or Pixi)
• Strong version control skills using Git
• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and collaborative workflows
• Proficiency in Linux environments
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to explain complex concepts
• Demonstrated ability to write clean, scalable, and modular code
• Strong organizational and time management capabilities
• Collaborative mindset with ability to work effectively in diverse, interdisciplinary teams
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in relevant field
• Experience with modern web technologies (JavaScript, React, Node.js)
• Background in full-stack development and web service deployment
• Educational background or demonstrated interest in biology, genetics, or related sciences
• Experience in scientific computing or bioinformatics applications
• Experience in developing and deploying AI models and tools