Data Scientist - Agentic Bioinformatics

Data Scientist - Agentic Bioinformatics
VIB
Leuven, Belgium
We are seeking an Data Scientist with a background in bioinformatics or computational biology to explore, build, and deploy tools based on large language models (LLMs) that support research at CCB. This includes agentic workflows that help researchers find suitable methods, write and run analysis code, and work with multi‑omics and spatial data. You will critically evaluate these tools, bring the useful ones into daily use across research groups, and help the CCB community use them effectively and responsibly.
Key Responsibilities
Build LLM-based tools and agentic workflows for bioinformatics tasks, such as assistants that help run and document standard analyses, retrieval over internal protocols and documentation;
Connect LLM tools to existing bioinformatics resources, including our pipelines, HPC environment, databases, and public resources (e.g., via tool calling or MCP);
Evaluate the reliability of these tools on realistic research tasks, with attention to correctness, reproducibility, and data privacy;
Deploy and maintain tools for CCB researchers in collaboration with the ML Unit at VIB.AI and the Vlaams Supercomputer Centrum (VSC);
Stay up to date with state‑of‑the‑art methods in LLMs, AI agents, and computational biology; evaluate, benchmark, and introduce relevant tools and best practices;
Deliver training and workshops on the practical and responsible use of LLMs and AI tools in research.
Profile
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and career paths. If this role interests you and you meet most of the essential requirements, we encourage you to apply.
A PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computer Science, or a related field or equivalent professional experience (e.g. in industry);
Strong programming skills in Python;
Hands-on experience with LLMs (via APIs or open-weight models), for example prompt design, or tool/function calling;
Working knowledge of common bioinformatic workflows (e.g. sequencing, single-cell, or spatial data), enough to judge whether an AI-generated analysis makes sense;
Ability to explain AI concepts and their limitations clearly to non-specialists;
Willingness to keep learning and to share knowledge with colleagues;
Good communication skills in English.
Nice to have:
Experience with retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) over scientific literature or internal documentation;
Experience with agent frameworks (e.g. LangGraph or similar);
Experience running open-weight models on local or HPC hardware.
Apply Now
Deadline 30 November
Don't forget to mention EuroScienceJobs when applying.
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Belgium
AI Scientist
Bioinformatics
Computing/Programming
Data Science
Maths and Computing
Not for Profit
On-site
PhD Required
VIB