Who we are:

Join Embark on our mission to improve the life and longevity of dogs everywhere. Our canine DNA test — the highest-rated, most accurate on the market — enables us to make scientific advances in personalized pet care. Recently named one of the fastest-growing private companies in America by Inc. Magazine, Embark is the only canine genetics company using research-grade technology, which allows us to make new scientific discoveries.

Designed by world leaders in dog genetics in partnership with Cornell University, the Embark Dog DNA Test provides information on genetic health risks and breed make-up, allowing dog owners, breeders, and veterinarians to make personalized care plans based on a dog's unique genetic profile. Embark is also home to the world’s only canine DNA relative finder. No wonder The New York Times recently called Embark’s Breed and Health Kit the best dog DNA test available!

Interested in joining our pack? We are looking for highly motivated and mission-driven employees who will join us as Embark leads the cutting edge of creativity and innovation in the fast-growing consumer genetics space.

About the role:

This role is designed for a Ph.D. with specialized training in epidemiology and public health, and with professional experience in biotechnology or biopharma, or with a government agency. A challenge and an opportunity of this position is collaborating with diverse stakeholders inside and out, including science, engineering and marketing teams as well as with breed communities and strategic partners.

As an Embark Epidemiologist, you will have access to the largest natural cohort of dogs in the world. Our rapidly expanding database is the backbone of Embark’s research discovery and product innovation engine. The database is continuously populated with the big data of pet lifestyle across each dog’s healthspan. These data form the basis of novel hypotheses and innovative avenues for preventive care to promote, enhance and maintain canine health and longevity.

This role will help integrate the epidemiological framework into discovery and other areas of the company. Successful candidates will have experience working in collaborative environments with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate is highly skilled in epidemiology and statistics, highly effective in science communication and proficient in programming and informatics.

This role reports to the Senior Director of Discovery and Commercialization. The position may reside in either Ithaca, NY or Boston, MA.

What you’ll do:

The Senior Research Scientist in Epidemiology will lead studies on the distribution of complex health risks across population demographics to benefit multiple scientific aspects of Embark’s effort to deliver a best-in-class genetic health product to pet parents, breeders, and veterinarians.

• This person will provide thought leadership to promote and integrate epidemiological themes in the enhancement of canine health and longevity
• Identify, recruit and manage multiple data sources for informing epidemiology
• Partner with breed communities to share population data and epidemiological outcomes for broadest impact
• Partner with engineering teams to optimize digital channels for inputting data and presenting results
• Incorporate the needs of Science, Product, and Marketing in developing and prioritizing epidemiological studies
• Excel in scientific communication to ensure findings are presented clearly and accurately
• Collaborate with statisticians, geneticists, data scientists and veterinarians to provide the accurate and current context for reporting the results and recommendations to pet parents, breeders and clinicians
• Be an excellent contributor through standardized reporting and documentation

What experience we’re looking for:

• 8+ years of experience in the epidemiology of human health
• Ph.D. and post-graduate training in epidemiology
• Proficiency in statistics and data science
• Proficiency in bioinformatics and programming in python / R
• Proficiency in scientific communication, including graphic representation
• Plus if experience from industry or government
• Ability to thrive and adapt in a high growth, results-oriented environment
• Strong interpersonal skills and a desire to collaborate
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Deep passion for dog health

What we can offer:

At Embark, we might be dog lovers, but we’re passionate about people too. We’re committed to building an inclusive culture where all employees can belong and flourish. Here are some of our benefits and perks:

• Working with the world's largest team of PhDs, DVMs and engineers focused on canine genomics and devoted to making the next generation of discoveries and technologies that will make the lives of dogs today and in the future longer and healthier
• A flexible vacation policy so you can take off the time you need when you need it 
• Paid parental leave (plus paw-rental leave for new pets)
• Every other Friday off each summer
• Dog-friendly office downtown Ithaca, NY (when we get back to the office), with some flexibility (eg work from home at least 2 days a week, flexibility around child care needs, etc)
• Perks tailored for dog lovers including subsidized pet insurance and dog-walking services
• Startup perks with big-company benefits (401k match, a generous bonus structure, commuter benefits, top-of-the-line healthcare, HSA/FSA)
• Competitive salaries and equity participation — every employee gets stock options
• Fully-stocked office snack bar and regular office events
• New iMacs and MacBook Pros, or laptops running Linux
• Continuing education, including attending conferences and company-provided resources to help with individual growth and development

Embark is an equal opportunity workplace and values diversity at our company. We are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship status, sexual orientation, age, disability status, marital status, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state or local laws. See also EEO is the Law.