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Variant Analyst

Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine (Atlanta, GA). 

The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Variant Analyst to join our molecular diagnostics and genomics team. This role is essential in supporting precision medicine by reviewing next-generation sequencing (NGS) data, annotating genetic polymorphisms, and pre-interpreting variants linked to various diseases. The successful candidate will collaborate with pathologists, cytogeneticists, and bioinformaticians to ensure accurate and timely variant classification, enabling physicians to generate clinical reports and inform patient care. Title, faculty rank, and salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze NGS data from somatic panels to identify, annotate, and classify genetic variants using established guidelines (e.g., ACMG/AMP).
• Review scientific literature, public databases (e.g., ClinVar, gnomAD, COSMIC), and internal resources to assess variant pathogenicity and clinical significance.
• Develop and maintain variant databases, interpretation workflows, and quality assurance protocols for targeted NGS assays.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate variant findings into electronic medical records and support clinical reporting.
• Participate in assay validation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of genomic testing processes in a CLIA/CAP-accredited laboratory environment.
• Contribute to research initiatives, including genotype-phenotype correlations and publication of findings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Genetics, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience (1–5 years preferred, depending on degree level) in variant curation, interpretation, and NGS data analysis.
• Strong knowledge of human genetics, molecular biology, and disease-associated polymorphisms.
• Familiarity with clinical frameworks such as ACMG/AMP guidelines, HGVS nomenclature, and NGS pipelines.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented setting.
• Preferred: Experience in a clinical laboratory setting, programming for data analysis, or certification in genetic counseling/molecular genetics.  Additionally, proficiency with bioinformatics tools and software (e.g., GATK, IGV, Variant Effect Predictor, Python, R, SQL) is also preferred.

Emory University offers competitive benefits, professional development opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).

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