Computational Biologist

Pluton Biosciences is seeking an experienced and driven Computational Biologist to join our Integrated Data Science Team and help build the next generation of microbial products that deliver climate-smart crop nutrition. We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment; brings creative, analytical rigor; and works exceptionally well with others. This role has direct influence on translating discovery-stage insights into real-world agricultural solutions. This position is based in St. Louis, MO

Description

About Us:

Pluton Biosciences is an AgTech startup developing microbial products that provide critical crop nutrition, enrich soils, and support profitable, sustainable farming practices. Our team values community, collaboration, and innovation as we scale emerging biotechnologies into commercial products with meaningful impact for growers.

Position Summary:

The Computational Biologist will play a central role in converting complex genomic and metagenomic datasets into clear, interpretable insights that advance Pluton's research programs. This position requires close coordination with teams across the R&D organization to ensure analytical approaches, experimental design, and scientific priorities remain tightly aligned.

The role involves working at the interface of data analysis, microbiology, and product research, supporting the discovery and characterization of microbial candidates, validating mechanisms of action, and enabling early-stage product development. Success requires strong technical rigor, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate across groups to guide data-driven decision making and maintain coherence between computational efforts and broader program objectives. This position is 100% in-person and located in St. Louis, MO.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze genomic and metagenomic sequencing datasets (amplicon, shotgun, short-read, long-read).
• Visualize, interpret, and communicate complex multi-omics data to internal teams and external partners.
• Support development and maintenance of bioinformatic workflows and pipelines.
• Stay current on developments within the field; identify and implement new technologies that improve analytical capabilities.
• Apply bioinformatics best practices.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams to support company priorities, ensure alignment, and translate data outputs into actionable insights for program advancement.

Required Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in bioinformatics, microbial ecology/microbiology, biostatistics, or a related field.
• Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python and/or R preferred) and programming best practices (e.g. git/version control, documentation of code, unit testing, etc.).
• Significant experience using bioinformatics tools involved in *omics sequence analysis (both amplicon and metagenomic).
• Experience with comparative genomics
• Experience in AI/ML methods for biological data analysis.
• Experience with machine learning and AI tools as applied to microbiome data
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Strong ability to interpret and communicate scientific concepts and experimental results to diverse audiences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and technical writing skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Agricultural industry experience preferred.
• Experience with AWS or other cloud computing platforms.
• Understanding of database structures and experience managing biological databases.
• Experience developing algorithms or software for bioinformatic analyses.
• Experience with image analysis using computer vision or similar tools.
• Familiarity with building graphical user interfaces (e.g., Shiny apps)
• Strong publication record in a relevant field.
• Experience with electronic laboratory notebooks and programmatic integration with other platforms.
• Experience with geospatial data analysis.
• Experience with laboratory automation.

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary, equity participation, and benefits commensurate with experience.

Equal Opportunity

Pluton Biosciences is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to legally protected characteristics.