OPT Bioinformatics Jobs

Bioinformatics roles sit at the intersection of biology, computer science, and data analysis, making them a strong fit for OPT work authorization. Most positions require a relevant degree in computational biology, bioinformatics, or a related STEM field, which also qualifies you for the 24-month STEM OPT extension.

See All OPT Bioinformatics Jobs

Overview

Open Jobs44+
Top Visa TypeF-1 OPT
Work Type84% On-site
Median Salary$87K
Top LocationSan Diego, CA
Most JobsALLEN INSTITUTE

Showing 5 of 44+ Bioinformatics jobs

BillionToOne
Bioinformatics Intern, Prenatal
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BillionToOne
Added 2w ago
Bioinformatics Intern, Prenatal
BillionToOne
Menlo Park, California
Laboratory Research
Biotech & Life Sciences
$25/hr
On-Site
Bachelor's
11-50

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Plasmidsaurus
Bioinformatics Scientist
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Plasmidsaurus
Added 2w ago
Bioinformatics Scientist
Plasmidsaurus
San Francisco, California
Laboratory Research
Biotech & Life Sciences
Data Science & Analytics
Data Science
Data Analytics
$170,000/yr - $190,000/yr
On-Site
3+ yrs exp.
Doctorate

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University Of Washington
Research Scientist/Engineer 3, Bioinformatics Analyst
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University Of Washington
Added 3w ago
Research Scientist/Engineer 3, Bioinformatics Analyst
University Of Washington
Seattle, Washington
Laboratory Research
Biotech & Life Sciences
Data Science & Analytics
Data Science
$80,244/yr - $110,004/yr
On-Site
4+ yrs exp.
Bachelor's
10,000+

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Cincinnati Children's Hospital
Senior Bioinformatics Analyst
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Cincinnati Children's Hospital
Added 3w ago
Senior Bioinformatics Analyst
Cincinnati Children's Hospital
Cincinnati, Ohio
Data Science & Analytics
Biotech & Life Sciences
Laboratory Research
Data Science
Data Analytics
On-Site
2+ yrs exp.
Master's

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Axle Informatics LLC
Computer Science/Bioinformatics Intern
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Axle Informatics LLC
Added 1mo ago
Computer Science/Bioinformatics Intern
Axle Informatics LLC
Rockville, Maryland
Software Engineering
Backend Engineering
Not listed
On-Site
Bachelor's

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Tips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Bioinformatics

Target STEM-designated programs

Your bioinformatics degree likely qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Confirm your program's CIP code with your DSO before job searching, so you can accurately communicate your full authorization window to employers.

Lead with your technical stack

Hiring managers in bioinformatics screen for tools like Python, R, Nextflow, and cloud platforms. Listing these prominently on your resume signals immediate productivity and reduces hesitation around OPT authorization timelines.

Focus on research-driven employers

Pharmaceutical companies, genomics firms, and academic medical centers file OPT and H-1B visa paperwork regularly. These organizations have established immigration processes, making them far more receptive to candidates on work authorization.

Quantify your research contributions

Employers respond to measurable impact. Frame your work around datasets processed, pipeline runtime improvements, or publications contributed to. Concrete outcomes shift the conversation away from visa status toward your value.

Apply before your OPT start date

Bioinformatics hiring processes at research institutions can run eight to twelve weeks. Starting your search three to four months before graduation gives you enough runway to have an offer in hand before OPT begins.

Clarify E-Verify requirements early

STEM OPT extension employers must be enrolled in E-Verify. Before investing time in an application, confirm the company meets this requirement, especially at smaller biotech startups where compliance processes are less established.

Bioinformatics OPT: Frequently Asked Questions

Do bioinformatics jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?

Most do. Bioinformatics, computational biology, and biostatistics degrees are commonly classified under STEM CIP codes that qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Your specific eligibility depends on your program's CIP code, not just the degree title, so verify with your DSO before assuming you qualify.

How do I find bioinformatics employers willing to sponsor OPT students?

Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically for employers open to OPT and visa sponsorship, which saves time compared to applying broadly and discovering authorization issues late in the process. Pharmaceutical companies, genomics research labs, and large hospital systems are the most consistent sources of OPT-friendly bioinformatics roles.

Can I work as a bioinformatics contractor or freelancer on OPT?

Self-employment is technically permitted on OPT if you own at least 50 percent of the business and the work is directly related to your degree. However, contract work for a single client without that structure may not qualify. STEM OPT extension specifically prohibits self-employment, so consult your DSO before pursuing contract arrangements.

What happens to my OPT if my bioinformatics job is remote for an employer based outside the U.S.?

OPT requires that the job be with a US-based employer. Working remotely for a company incorporated and operating outside the United States does not satisfy OPT employment requirements, even if you are physically located in the U.S.. The employer must have a legitimate U.S. presence and the work must be in your field of study.

Does part-time bioinformatics work count toward OPT employment requirements?

Yes, but with conditions. During pre-completion OPT you are limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session. During post-completion OPT you must work at least 20 hours per week to remain in valid status. Part-time bioinformatics roles at research institutions or biotech companies can satisfy this threshold.