Sample interview questions: Can you discuss any experience you have in analyzing and interpreting viral genomics or metagenomics data using bioinformatics tools?
Sample answer:
-
Analyzed viral genomics data to identify novel variants and track their spread:
-
Utilized NGS platforms (e.g., Illumina, Ion Torrent) to sequence viral RNA/DNA from clinical samples
- Assembled and annotated viral genomes using bioinformatics tools (e.g., SPAdes, Geneious)
- Performed phylogenetic analysis to identify genetic relationships and potential evolutionary pathways
-
Reported findings to public health agencies for surveillance and outbreak monitoring
-
Interpreted metagenomics data to characterize viral diversity in environmental samples:
-
Extracted viral DNA/RNA from environmental samples (e.g., soil, water) using established protocols
- Sequenced samples using shotgun metagenomics approach
- Analyzed data using bioinformatics pipelines (e.g., MG-RAST, QIIME) to identify viral taxa and their relative abundances
-
Correlated viral presence with environmental factors to assess potential transmission pathways
-
Developed and implemented bioinformatics pipelines for automated viral genomics analysis:
-
Collaborated with computational scientists to design and optimize workflows
- Integrated open-source and proprietary tools (e.g., BWA, VCFtools) for efficient data processing and analysis
-
Implemented quality control mechanisms and automated… Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/5_1_45/Bioinformatics%20Specialist