At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research team to explore type 2 diabetes using advanced data science techniques.
- Company: University of Southampton, a leader in genetic epidemiology and precision medicine.
- Benefits: Access to large datasets, high-performance computing, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Collaborate with top researchers and enjoy excellent career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on health by uncovering the genetic secrets of diabetes.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and experience with large-scale biomedical datasets required.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Offer Description
The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Southampton invites applications for a three-year, full-time, fixed-term Research Fellow to join Professor Hanieh Yaghootkar’s interdisciplinary precision-diabetes research programme.
Based at University Hospital Southampton, you will investigate the biological mechanisms underlying type 2 diabetes by integrating measures of organ health with large-scale genetic and clinical data.
Working alongside genetic epidemiologists, clinicians and data scientists, you will apply advanced statistical and machine learning approaches to identify distinct diabetes subtypes, investigate their genetic determinants and improve prediction of disease risk and progression.
The role
As a Research Fellow, you will
- Develop and apply machine learning approaches to identify distinct subtypes of type 2 diabetes using measures of liver, pancreas, adipose tissue and skeletal muscle health.
- Characterise the clinical, metabolic and genetic profiles of diabetes subtypes and evaluate their reproducibility across populations.
- Conduct genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of organ-health traits and diabetes subtypes, and apply Mendelian randomisation to investigate potential causal relationships.
- Develop and evaluate statistical and machine learning models to predict incident type 2 diabetes and disease progression using genetic and clinical data.
- Analyse large-scale population datasets, including UK Biobank, using robust statistical methods and reproducible computational workflows.
- Contribute to high-quality scientific publications, conference presentations and the dissemination of research findings.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary researchers across genetic epidemiology, genomics, clinical medicine, imaging, statistics and data science.
About you
You will have
- A Ph D in in genetic epidemiology, statistical genetics, biostatistics, data science, computational biology or a closely related discipline.
- Experience analysing large-scale genetic, epidemiological or biomedical datasets, ideally including UK Biobank.
- Strong statistical and computational skills, including proficiency in R and/or Python and experience working in Linux-based computing environments.
- Practical experience conducting GWAS and Mendelian randomisation analyses, including appropriate quality control, sensitivity analyses and interpretation.
- Experience applying machine learning, clustering, predictive modelling or other advanced statistical methods to complex biomedical data.
- An understanding of genetic epidemiology and the application of statistical methods to investigate complex disease mechanisms.
- Evidence of high-quality research outputs, including peer-reviewed publications.
- Excellent analytical, organisational and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams.
- Experience with metabolic disease research would be advantageous.
- What we can offer
At Southampton, you will join a supportive, internationally connected research environment at the forefront of genetic epidemiology, data science and precision medicine. We offer:
- Access to large-scale biomedical datasets, high-performance computing infrastructure and secure analytical environments.
- Opportunities to work at the interface of human genetics, medical imaging, machine learning and metabolic disease research.
- Collaboration with leading researchers across clinical medicine, genomics, epidemiology and computational science.
- Opportunities for high-impact publications, scientific conferences, professional development and career progression.
- A supportive and inclusive working environment committed to equality, diversity and flexible working, including Athena SWAN principles.
- A competitive University benefits package, including pension provision and generous annual leave.
Working at the University of Southampton
Check out the staff benefits and why you should join us at The University of Southampton.
- A standard DBS check is required for this role.
Research Fellow in Genetic Epidemiology and Data Science in Southampton employer: EURAXESS Ireland
The University of Southampton is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of environmental science. As a Research Fellow, you will have access to cutting-edge resources and the opportunity to work alongside leading experts, enhancing your professional growth while contributing to impactful research on ocean biogeochemistry. Located in a dynamic academic environment, the university prioritises employee development and provides a supportive atmosphere for meaningful contributions to global scientific challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow in Genetic Epidemiology and Data Science in Southampton
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow in Genetic Epidemiology and Data Science in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show EURAXESS Ireland that you have the hands-on skills they need.
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Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that EURAXESS Ireland does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at EURAXESS Ireland
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at EURAXESS Ireland. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
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Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at EURAXESS Ireland. This shows your passion for the industry!
