The Chong Lab welcomes researchers and students interested in computational genomics, bioinformatics, and data science. Lab members receive interdisciplinary training and opportunities to develop computational methods, lead research projects, and collaborate across the University of Virginia and the broader genomics community.
Postdoctoral Researchers
Opportunity
Postdoctoral positions are available in Dr. Zechen Chong’s laboratory in the Department of Genome Sciences at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. We are seeking highly motivated and creative researchers with a passion for computational genomics and bioinformatics.
Postdoctoral researchers will have opportunities to lead independent projects while collaborating with investigators at UVA and across national and international genomics initiatives. Projects will be tailored to each researcher’s interests and expertise, providing a strong foundation for career development in computational genomics. Initial appointments are for two to three years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding.
Research Areas
Current research areas include algorithm development for long-read sequencing, structural variation discovery, pangenomics, and the integration of emerging technologies such as PacBio HiFi, Oxford Nanopore, single-cell sequencing, and other multi-omic platforms.
Ideal Candidates
- Hold a Ph.D. in bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, genomics, genetics, statistics, mathematics, or a related field.
- Have strong programming, algorithm-development, and large-scale data-analysis skills.
- Have experience with genomic or multi-omic data; experience with long-read sequencing is preferred but not required.
- Demonstrate research productivity through peer-reviewed publications, software, datasets, or other scholarly contributions.
- Communicate effectively and work well both independently and collaboratively.
How to Apply
Please email Zechen Chong a letter of interest and a current CV, including a publication list and contact details for three references.
Graduate Students
Training and Projects
We welcome Ph.D. students who are passionate about computational genomics, bioinformatics, and data science. Students receive interdisciplinary training in algorithm development, software engineering, statistical genomics, and large-scale genomic data analysis.
Graduate students develop and apply computational methods to diverse datasets generated by next-generation and long-read sequencing technologies, including PacBio HiFi, Oxford Nanopore, single-cell sequencing, pangenomics, and other emerging multi-omic platforms. Projects are tailored to each student’s interests and provide opportunities to contribute to both methodological advances and biological discoveries.
Qualifications
- Strong motivation for computational genomics research.
- Proficiency in programming, algorithm design, and large-scale data analysis.
- Clear written and spoken communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
How to Apply
Please email a letter of interest and your CV to Zechen Chong. Prospective students should also consult the relevant University of Virginia graduate-program admissions requirements.
Research Environment at UVA
Department of Genome Sciences
The Department of Genome Sciences brings together expertise in genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, biomedical informatics, and precision medicine. Its collaborative environment connects researchers across the University of Virginia School of Medicine and the broader university community.
Interdisciplinary Resources
Researchers benefit from connections across the Schools of Medicine, Engineering and Applied Science, Data Science, and Arts & Sciences, as well as access to advanced genomics technologies, high-performance computing, core facilities, and clinical and translational collaborators.
Charlottesville
Located near the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville combines a strong academic community with cultural activities and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city is also within reach of major biomedical research and policy centers in Washington, D.C.