Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics is the computational right hand of Genomics. Bristol-Myers Squibb’s bioinformatics group exploits and integrates all available sources of genome data to understand disease, for use throughout the drug discovery process.
“Bioinformatics has great opportunities to influence research at Bristol-Myers Squibb and thus human medicine," says Nathan Siemers, director, Ph.D., Bioinformatics. "It is a unique time to witness the biological revolution of genomics, and in many ways the Bioinformatics group has front row seats.”
The field literally sprung into existence in the 1990s, with the first sequencing of a eukaryotic genome (Saccharomyces cerevisiae, baker’s yeast) and efforts to “shotgun” sequence cDNA libraries to discover novel drug targets.
Today, we work with over a dozen sequenced mammalian genomes, vast catalogs of human genes and genetic variation, and extensive genomic profiling data (affymetrix/RNA, protein, metabolite) to characterize and understand our targets and drug candidates.
As with all areas of genomics, our working landscape and potpourri of tools is rapidly evolving. Currently, the advances in ultra-high throughput sequencing and fluorescent microscopy (high content biology platforms) are offering us unprecedented insights into biology. Bioinformatics also employs the most powerful high-performance computing platforms within the company.
Our team looks for individuals with strong fundamental training in the natural sciences and diverse cross-training in other disciplines, including computer science, mathematics and statistics. We seek individuals who possess what might seem an unlikely combination of traits: driven scientist, computer guru and service-focused collaborator.