Senior Computational Biologist

About the role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Computational Biologist within the Department of Oncology, based in the Oxford Molecular Diagnostics Centre.

One of it's emphases is on clinical applications of novel genomics technologies, in particular next generation sequencing and array-based methods.  The results of this programme are already being translated to the clinic. Particular focus is currently on cancer, haematology and inherited disorders.

The interdisciplinary nature of the Department of Oncology and of the Oxford Molecular Diagnostics Centre involves a diverse and stimulating array of challenges relating to biology, sequence analysis, statistics, computer programming and the application of these to clinical questions. This, combined with collaborations across Oxford’s CRUK Cancer Centre and the Oxford Centre of Early Cancer Detection (OxCode) provides an active and rich research environment.

You will be responsible for scientifically leading the chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) related cancer genomics projects. You will work with a small group of data scientists to develop a molecular risk score for disease progression from pre-malignancy using a large data set of whole genome tumour-normal pairs. In addition, you will be involved in applying tools for neo-epitope prediction of CLL from transcriptome sequencing. You will be familiar with working in the Genomics England’s data environment. You will apply analysis methods and where appropriate, develop novel methods and algorithms, and work on setting up and maintaining the necessary data processing pipelines. You will work closely with multi-disciplinary project teams, encompassing laboratory scientists and clinicians and other data scientists on the Oxford Campus.

This is a full-time post, fixed-term for 1 year in first instance.

About You

You must hold a PhD in Bioinformatics, Statistical Genetics or similar discipline, along with deep understanding of CLL genomics evidenced by high-impact publications. You will have previous overseas postdoctoral experience in an internationally renowned institution in applied DNA sequence analysis or a directly comparable field. Demonstrable programming skills in languages such as Python, Java, C/C++, R or similar and ability to assess new developments in bioinformatics are essential. You will have early evidence of the ability to lead a team scientifically and a proven track record of managing international collaborations effectively, as well as previous experience of directly supervising students. A Strong academic publication record in peer-reviewed journals and previous experience of cancer sequence analysis would be advantageous.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a supporting statement (setting out how you meet the selection criteria), a curriculum vitae and the names and contact details of two referees as part of your online application.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on 3 April 2024.

Interviews are expected to take place w/c 22th April 2024. Candidates should be available for interview during this time.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity