Genomic Data Analyst in Saffron Walden

The HAVANA team, part of Ensembl, produces reference‑quality gene annotation for the human and mouse genomes as a core contributor to the GENCODE project, a Global Core Biodata Resource. Our work underpins research and clinical genomics worldwide, supporting users from major international consortia to individual researchers. We also play a key role in the PARADIGM consortium (Primary Annotated Resources to Advance Discovery In Genomic Medicine), ensuring that gene annotation is optimised for genomic medicine. This includes close collaboration with NCBI RefSeq on the MANE (Matched Annotation from NCBI and EMBL‑EBI) transcript set, widely used in clinical variant interpretation.

We are now seeking a Genomic Data Analyst to join our multidisciplinary team of genomic analysts and bioinformatics developers. In this role, you will contribute directly to the production of high‑quality manual gene annotation for GENCODE and PARADIGM. You will combine biological expertise, computational skills, and careful analysis of diverse genomic and omics datasets to ensure the accuracy and utility of reference genome annotation. Working closely with bioinformatics developers and collaborators, your work will both contribute to current annotation releases and inform the development of scalable, manually supervised automated annotation pipelines. The annotation you produce will be used globally, from fundamental research to clinical genomics. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated scientist who enjoys detailed biological analysis, collaborative working, and contributing to resources with real‑world impact.

Responsibilities

• Produce and modify manual gene annotation to the exceptionally high standards required for the GENCODE and PARADIGM projects.
• Analyse genomic and omics datasets to support accurate annotation of genes and transcripts.
• Identify opportunities to improve annotation based on emerging biological insights, technologies, and datasets, and work with team leaders to implement these advances.
• Help identify and evaluate new data types for integration into annotation workflows, contributing to the development of annotation guidelines.
• Contribute to improvements in existing annotation workflows and software by working with developers and stakeholders.
• Present and communicate the work of the group internally and externally, including at scientific meetings and with collaborators.
• Undertake outreach and training activities, including the development and delivery of seminars and training sessions.
• Collaborate on the analysis and interpretation of data for publications and downstream experiments.
• Respond to external user enquiries with clarity, accuracy, and authority.

Qualifications

• PhD in genome science, molecular biology, genetics, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong biological knowledge relevant to genome annotation.
• Experience using genome browsers (Ensembl, UCSC, NCBI) to interrogate genomic data.
• Experience working in a Linux/Unix environment.
• Familiarity with scripting, data analysis, and bioinformatics tools and resources.
• Relevant domain experience in one or more of the following:
• Genome annotation.
• Transcriptomic sequencing methods and sequence alignment.
• Experimental methods for omics data generation.
• Computational processing and analysis of omics data.
• Variant interpretation.
• Clinical genomics.

Desired Skills

• Direct experience annotating gene structure and function using omics data.
• Experience integrating diverse datasets and biological knowledge to improve annotation.
• Involvement in collaborative omics research projects.
• A record of communicating scientific findings through publications or presentations.
• Familiarity with large‑scale genome or pangenome initiatives.
• Knowledge of non‑canonical translation and supporting data types (e.g. Ribo‑seq, immunopeptidomics).
• Understanding of non‑coding RNA biology and relevant data types and analysis methods.

Behaviours We Look For

• You are curious, motivated, with strong attention to detail and an interest in genome annotation and genomic medicine.
• You enjoy working both independently and as part of a collaborative, international team.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage your own time and balance multiple tasks.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team.
• Willingness to learn, develop, and adapt in a fast‑moving research environment.
• Confidence communicating both biological and computational concepts, orally and in writing.

Diversity & Inclusion

At EMBL‑EBI, we believe that diverse teams drive innovation and scientific excellence. We encourage applications from candidates of all genders, identities, nationalities, and/or any other diverse backgrounds.

Hybrid Working

At EMBL‑EBI we are pleased to offer hybrid working options for all our employees. A dedicated desk will be available every day, our team work three days on site and two from home.

Contract and Salary

Interviews: We plan to hold introductory meetings with selected candidates remotely. Contract length: 3 years (Grant Based). Salary: Grade 5 monthly salary starting at £3,303 per month after tax but excluding pension and insurance contributions. Plus generous benefits.

Why Join Us

Do something meaningful. At EMBL‑EBI you can apply your talent and passion to accelerate science and tackle some of humankind's greatest challenges. EMBL‑EBI, part of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, is a worldwide leader in the storage, analysis and dissemination of large biological datasets. We provide the global research community with access to publicly available databases and tools which are crucial for the advancement of healthcare, food security, and biodiversity. Join a culture of innovation. We are located on the Wellcome Genome Campus, alongside other prominent research and biotech organisations, and surrounded by beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside. This is a highly collaborative and inclusive community where our employees enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. We are committed to ensuring our employees feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their professional potential.

Benefits

Enjoy lots of benefits:

• Financial incentives: Monthly family, child and non-resident allowances, annual salary review, pension scheme, death benefit, long‑term care, accident‑at‑work and unemployment insurances.
• Flexible working arrangements - including hybrid working patterns.
• Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family (including all prescriptions and generous dental & optical cover).
• Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year, in addition public holidays.
• Relocation package including installation grant (if required).
• Campus life: Free shuttle bus to and from work, on‑site library, subsidised on‑site gym and cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely).
• Family benefits: On‑site nursery, 10 days of child sick leave, generous parental leave, holiday clubs on campus and monthly family and child allowances.
• Benefits for non‑UK residents: Visa exemption, education grant for private schooling, financial support to travel back to your home country every second year and a monthly non‑resident allowance.