Translational Scientist in London

Come and join our research team and help us develop genetics services for patients with epilepsy. We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic scientist funded by Epilepsy Research UK to join our team based in the North Thames Genomic Laboratory. Our team is delivering transformation in patient care by implementing testing and analytical strategies to detect disease causing genetic variants that are only present in the brain in some patients with epilepsy. This includes testing brain tissue along with less invasive samples such as cell free DNA from cerebrospinal fluid and cells from Stereoelectroencephalography electrodes.

If you are committed to contributing to a team delivering excellence in research in genomics and would like to gain experience in translational research this is definitely the post for you. This post is available from 1/9/2026, funded until 29th February 2028. You will be joining an enthusiastic, friendly, motivated multidisciplinary team working closely with the Clinical Scientific and Bioinformatics team. This is an ideal opportunity to contribute to the translation of research into clinical practice for the benefit of our patients.

This post is suitable for postdoctoral scientists wanting to explore the exciting area of translational research. Applicants who are close to finishing a PhD are also eligible to apply and will commence at Band 6.

Based at the Rare and Inherited Disease Hub Laboratory of NT GLH at Great Ormond Street NHS Foundation Trust, the postholder will be joining a highly successful translational research team with an international track record in translating research to clinical practice for the benefit of patients. The postholder will work closely with academic collaborators and clinical colleagues to ensure the smooth translation of research projects into clinical diagnostic service. The primary role of the post holder will be to oversee development and translation of projects being delivered as part of the Epilepsy Research UK funded research grant. A particular focus is the development of sequencing technologies to detect somatic mosaic variants present in the brain of epilepsy patients. This includes testing of brain tissue as well as less invasive methods such as cell free DNA from CSF and cells from SEEGs.

This list is not exhaustive as over the course of the post we expect that projects may change as technologies develop, making it an exciting opportunity to learn new skills and be at the forefront of translational research. The post holder will be expected to work with the Principal Translational Research Scientist to aid the transition from research to service for new approaches to diagnosis as they arise, until such time as they are fully evaluated and established when the service can pass to the clinical team. They will also be expected to contribute to publications arising from their work, and to present at national and international meetings as required.

We are committed to recruiting the best person for the job through a fair, open and consistent process that is free from bias and discrimination. We are working towards becoming an anti-racist organisation. This means creating a workplace where every colleague feels seen, heard and valued, and where racism in any form has no place. Our anti-racism commitment is backed by action through our Anti-Racism Statement and action plan, developed in collaboration with our REACH staff network. We actively challenge discrimination, dismantle barriers and embed equity across all aspects of our workforce, including recruitment, progression and development. All applicants will receive equal consideration regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, health condition or employment history. We particularly welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, people with disabilities or long-term health conditions, and LGBTQ+ community members. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, a member of the Business Disability Forum, and a Stonewall Diversity Champion. Our staff networks, including REACH, PRIDE, ENABLED and Women’s Networks, are active and executive supported. These employee-led networks play a vital role in shaping an inclusive culture at GOSH and are open to all colleagues. Together, we are building a culture where inclusion is not optional - it is essential.

The full job description provides an overview of the key tasks and responsibilities of the role, and the person specification outlines the qualifications, skills, experience and knowledge required.

Qualifications

• Essential criteria: PhD related to genomics or equivalent experience; 1st or 2nd class honours degree in genetics or a relevant biological subject.
• Desirable criteria: State Registered Clinical Scientist (HCPC).

Experience

• Essential criteria: Experience in a molecular genetics laboratory; Extensive & comprehensive knowledge of molecular genetics and the development / translation of methods / techniques; Experience of research in molecular genetics; Up to date knowledge of scientific literature and best practice guidance relating to molecular genetic tests.

Skills

• Essential criteria: Skilled in the use of molecular genetics techniques including NGS technologies; Evidence of excellent inter-personal communication skills; Able to establish and validate new techniques / tests including ability to troubleshoot; Willing to adapt to changes in methodology; Proactive and innovative approach to service improvement and delivery; Computer literate, including use of DNA/Genetic databases, analytical software, variant classification; Ability to collate, write, publish and present research findings.