At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive computational analysis for groundbreaking research on neuro-immune interactions.
- Company: Join a vibrant research community at the University, focused on innovative health solutions.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge research with supportive mentorship and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact in neuroscience and immunology while collaborating with dynamic teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in Health Data Science, programming skills in R or Python, and strong data analysis abilities.
- Other info: Flexible part-time role with opportunities for international researchers and diverse collaborations.
Overview
Applications are invited for a highly motivated Part-Time Bioinformatician to drive the computational analysis for a cutting-edge research project. The successful candidate will analyse and interpret complex, multi-omic datasets from in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro experiments to validate new therapeutic targets aimed at modulating neuro-immune interactions and halting chronic neuroinflammation. This project is part of a bigger MRC-sponsored effort to modulate microglial metabolic pathways to prevent secondary neuronal damage and cognitive decline.
Position
The post is initially for one year at 0.3 FTE.
The Ideal Candidate
- An or equivalent experience in Health Data Science, or a related quantitative field.
- Demonstrated experience in analysing next-generation omics data, particularly single-cell and spatial multi-omics datasets, as well as machine learning.
- Excellent data analysis/interpretation skill, good understanding of gene regulatory networks and graph theory.
- Strong programming skills (R or Python).
- The ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
Additional Desirable Skills
- Experience in integrating other types of omics data.
- Knowledge of network biology and pathway analysis.
The Bioinformatician will be responsible for developing and applying computational pipelines and will work closely with wet-lab scientists to interpret findings and contribute to the lab\’s research goals (supervised by Dr. Luca Peruzzotti-Jametti).
Benefits
Detailed benefits of working at the University are explained in the further particulars document. The benefits of working in this lab are:
- Cutting-Edge Research in Cell Metabolism: Contribute to our lab\’s groundbreaking research on cell metabolism and its impact on human health and disease, within the exciting fields of neuroscience and immunology.
- Thriving Multidisciplinary Environment: Immerse yourself in a vibrant research community within the Clifford Allbutt Building on the Cambridge Biosciences Campus. Benefit from close interactions with:
- Dynamic Team with Translational Focus: Be an integral part of a dynamic team conducting basic research with the potential to make a real-world impact.
- Exceptional Collaborations and Growth: Interact with researchers at various career stages, fostering a diverse and enriching learning environment. Engage in collaborative research with groups across the UK, Europe, and the globe. Lead projects and contribute to impactful scientific publications.
- Supportive Mentorship and Guidance: Receive active supervision and guidance, including regular one-to-one meetings to support your professional development.
- Comprehensive Support for International Researchers: We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Visa payment is available for international researchers employed on a Skilled Worker or Global Talent Visa.
Resources: https://www.LPJlab.org/
Relevant Publications
- Mitochondrial complex I activity in microglia sustains neuroinflammation. Nature. 2024 Apr;628(8006):195-203. doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-07167-9.
- Increased cholesterol synthesis drives neurotoxicity in patient stem cell-derived model of multiple sclerosis. Cell Stem Cell. 2024 Nov 7;31(11):1574-1590.e11. doi: 10.1016/j.stem.2024.09.014.
- Targeting Mitochondrial Metabolism in Neuroinflammation: Towards a Therapy for Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. Trends Mol Med. 2018 Oct;24(10):838-855. doi: 10.1016/j.molmed.2018.07.007.
Click the \’Apply\’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
Closing date: 19th September 2025
Interview date: 24th – 26th September 2025
Please quote reference ZE47178 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Apply online
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Research Assistant (Part Time, Fixed Term) employer: Cambridge Service Alliance
Contact Detail:
Cambridge Service Alliance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Assistant (Part Time, Fixed Term)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the lab and its members. Understanding their work and how you can contribute will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions related to bioinformatics and data analysis. This will help you articulate your experience with multi-omic datasets and programming skills confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your collaborative spirit! Be ready to discuss examples of how you've worked in teams before. Highlighting your ability to communicate and collaborate with wet-lab scientists will be key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it gives you a chance to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically to what we’re looking for in a Research Assistant.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Assistant (Part Time, Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Covering Letter: Make sure to customise your covering letter to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We want to see your passion for bioinformatics and how you can contribute to our exciting research!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your programming skills in R or Python, and any experience with multi-omic datasets. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you bring to the table!
Keep It Concise: While we love detail, keep your CV and covering letter clear and to the point. Highlight the most relevant experiences and skills that make you a great fit for this part-time position.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it’s super easy to upload your documents there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge Service Alliance
✨Know Your Data
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of next-generation omics data, especially single-cell and spatial multi-omics datasets. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past work where you've successfully analysed complex datasets.
✨Show Off Your Programming Skills
Since strong programming skills in R or Python are crucial for this role, be ready to demonstrate your coding abilities. You might even want to prepare a small project or example that showcases your skills in developing computational pipelines.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong written and oral communication skills are essential. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to collaborate with wet-lab scientists. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your ability to communicate effectively.
✨Research the Lab and Its Projects
Familiarise yourself with the lab's recent publications and ongoing research projects. This will not only help you understand their work better but also allow you to ask insightful questions during the interview, showing your genuine interest in contributing to their goals.