At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop advanced bioinformatics tools for detecting engineered pathogens in microbial genomics.
- Company: Cardiff University, a leader in research and innovation.
- Benefits: 45 days annual leave, local pension scheme, and support for a Living Wage.
- Other info: Inclusive environment promoting diversity and flexible working arrangements.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge project enhancing national defence against biological threats.
- Qualifications: PhD in bioinformatics or related field with expertise in data analysis.
The predicted salary is between 41064 - 46049 £ per year.
This post is currently open to employees of Cardiff University only. Please do not apply if you do not have a current contract of employment with the University.
We are seeking to appoint a Post‑Doctoral Bioinformatician for a unique opportunity to work at the cutting edge of microbial genomics and national defence. As part of the GHOST project, funded by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, the postholder will help develop advanced bioinformatics tools to detect engineered pathogens through investigation of anomalous genomic signals, advancing the field of Microbial Forensics.
Responsibilities
- Develop and test computational tools for detecting genomic hallmarks of synthetic and transposable elements (GHOSTs).
- Support integration of these tools into national biosurveillance systems.
- Collaborate with public health and defence stakeholders to enhance the UK’s readiness for biological threats.
- Conduct data analysis, statistical modelling and ‘omics data analysis.
Qualifications
- PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology or a related field, or equivalent industrial experience.
- Proven expertise in ‘omics data analysis and statistical modelling.
- Experience with advanced bioinformatics tool development.
- Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
Position is full time (35 hours a week) and fixed term for a period of 4 months or until 31 December 2026, whichever is sooner. Salary: £41,064 – £46,049 per annum (Grade 6). Cardiff University offers many excellent benefits, including 45 days annual leave pro rata, local pension scheme, cycle‑to‑work scheme and other travel initiatives, annual increments within the pay scale, and support for a Living Wage.
Closing date: Wednesday, 8 July 2026.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusive Employment
Cardiff University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity and to creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of sex, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, trans identity, relationship status, religion or belief, caring responsibilities or age. Special encouragement is given to those under‑represented within the University workforce, such as those identifying as LGBT+, ethnic minority or with disabilities. Flexible working and job share arrangements may be considered.
Research Assessment Policy
Cardiff University is a signatory to the San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA). In hiring and promotion decisions we will evaluate applicants on the quality of their research, not publication metrics or the identity of the journal in which the research is published.
Applications may be submitted in Welsh. An application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than one submitted in English.
Internal Applicants Only - Research Associate in Computational Biology in Cardiff employer: Cardiff University
Cardiff University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of biosciences. With generous benefits such as 45 days of annual leave, a supportive local pension scheme, and a commitment to equality and diversity, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research while contributing to national defence initiatives makes this role particularly rewarding for those passionate about advancing microbial genomics.
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Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at Cardiff University
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Get ready to dive deep into the scientific concepts related to your field! For a biology role, you'll likely face questions about experimental design, data analysis techniques, and possibly even lab protocols. Make sure you're clear on your coursework and any practical experiences you've had.
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