Research Assistant in Statistical Genetics
Research Assistant in Statistical Genetics

Research Assistant in Statistical Genetics

Oxford Full-Time 29000 - 39000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support research on genetic variation and plasma protein levels through data analysis and visualisation.
  • Company: Join the Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, a leader in musculoskeletal sciences.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and the chance to work with cutting-edge biobank datasets.
  • Why this job: Be part of an interdisciplinary team making impactful discoveries in genetics and immunology.
  • Qualifications: Must have a degree in a relevant field and skills in R/Python for data analysis.
  • Other info: Position requires security checks; apply online by 30 July 2025.

The predicted salary is between 29000 - 39000 £ per year.

Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS)

This is a full time, fixed term position for 10 months starting in October 2025.
We are seeking a Research Assistant with a strong interest in statistical genetics, proteomics and immune regulation to support an interdisciplinary project investigating how genetic variation within the MHC region influences plasma protein levels.
In this role, you will work independently on assigned research tasks and report progress, challenges, and outcomes to project supervisors and group leads. You will perform quality control, processing, and statistical analysis of large-scale genetic (genotyping) and proteomic (Olink) datasets from the UK Biobank and China Kadoorie Biobank. You will be responsible for conducting comparative analyses to identify shared and ancestry-specific variant–protein associations across cohorts, as well as generating and interpreting high-quality visualisations of complex pQTL data, such as Manhattan plots, concordance scatter plots and Miami plots. You will also apply advanced statistical genetics methods, including meta-analysis using PLINK 1.9 (fixed-effects inverse-variance model), conditional analysis using REGENIE, and fine-mapping of HLA–protein associations.
You must hold a first degree in Genomic Medicine, Statistical Genetics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related quantitative discipline. You will also demonstrate a proficiency in statistical programming using R and/or Python, with experience in data management, analysis, and visualisation.You will demonstrate experience working with large-scale biological datasets, preferably from biobank studies (e.g., UK Biobank, China Kadoorie Biobank) as well as a solid understanding of statistical genetics concepts, including GWAS, pQTLs, linkage disequilibrium, fine-mapping and meta-analysis.Practical experience with genetic association testing and related workflows alongside a familiarity with command-line environments, high-performance computing (HPC) environments and pipeline execution on compute clusters (e.g., SLURM) are essential.
A master’s degree in Genomic Medicine, Statistical Genetics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related quantitative discipline and prior experience or strong interest in immunology, particularly the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) system are desirable.
Due to the nature of the research at the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, this job will require additional security pre-employment checks:
• A satisfactory basic Disclosure and Barring Service check
The closing date for applications is12 noon on 30 July 2025.Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application. Please quote180932in all correspondence

£34,982 per annum : Grade 6

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Research Assistant in Statistical Genetics employer: University of Oxford

The Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (NDORMS) is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, ideal for those passionate about advancing research in statistical genetics. Located in a vibrant academic environment, employees benefit from access to cutting-edge resources, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to contribute to impactful interdisciplinary projects. With a commitment to employee growth and a supportive atmosphere, NDORMS offers a rewarding experience for researchers eager to make a difference in the field.
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Contact Detail:

University of Oxford Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Assistant in Statistical Genetics

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific statistical genetics methods mentioned in the job description, such as PLINK and REGENIE. Being able to discuss these tools confidently during an interview will show your genuine interest and preparedness for the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Engage with current research in statistical genetics and proteomics by reading recent publications or attending relevant webinars. This will not only enhance your knowledge but also provide you with talking points that demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field.

✨Tip Number 3

Network with professionals in the field through platforms like LinkedIn or academic conferences. Making connections can sometimes lead to insider information about the role or even a referral, which can significantly boost your chances of landing the job.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your experience with large-scale datasets and any relevant projects you've worked on. Be ready to explain your approach to data management and analysis, as this will be crucial in demonstrating your capability for the tasks outlined in the job description.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant in Statistical Genetics

Statistical Genetics
Proteomics
Immune Regulation
Data Management
Statistical Programming (R and/or Python)
Quality Control
Statistical Analysis
Comparative Analyses
Data Visualisation
Genetic Association Testing
GWAS
pQTLs
Linkage Disequilibrium
Fine-Mapping
Meta-Analysis
Experience with Biobank Datasets
Command-Line Environments
High-Performance Computing (HPC)
Pipeline Execution on Compute Clusters (e.g., SLURM)
Attention to Detail
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in statistical genetics, proteomics, and any specific projects you've worked on that relate to the job description. Emphasise your proficiency in R and/or Python, as well as your experience with large-scale biological datasets.

Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: In your supporting statement, clearly articulate your interest in the role and how your background aligns with the requirements. Discuss your experience with genetic association testing, data management, and any familiarity with command-line environments or HPC.

Highlight Relevant Skills: Be sure to mention any practical experience you have with statistical methods mentioned in the job description, such as meta-analysis using PLINK or fine-mapping of HLA-protein associations. This will demonstrate your capability for the tasks outlined.

Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you quote the reference number 180932 in all correspondence and double-check that you have uploaded all required documents before submitting your application online. Pay attention to the closing date and submit well in advance.

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford

✨Showcase Your Technical Skills

Be prepared to discuss your proficiency in statistical programming languages like R and Python. Highlight any relevant projects where you've managed and analysed large-scale datasets, especially from biobank studies.

✨Understand the Research Context

Familiarise yourself with the specific research focus of the Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences. Understanding how genetic variation influences plasma protein levels will help you engage more meaningfully during the interview.

✨Prepare for Practical Questions

Expect questions that assess your knowledge of statistical genetics concepts such as GWAS, pQTLs, and fine-mapping. Be ready to explain these concepts clearly and how they relate to the role you're applying for.

✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills

Think of examples from your past experiences where you've faced challenges in research or data analysis. Be ready to discuss how you approached these problems and what the outcomes were, showcasing your ability to work independently.

Research Assistant in Statistical Genetics
University of Oxford
U
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