Lead (Staff) Bioinformatics Scientist
Lead (Staff) Bioinformatics Scientist

Lead (Staff) Bioinformatics Scientist

Cambridge Full-Time 48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead bioinformatics in R&D projects, analyse data, and develop new sequencing technologies.
  • Company: Illumina is revolutionising health equity through genomic technology for billions worldwide.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work options, a collaborative culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on human health while working with inspiring leaders and innovative projects.
  • Qualifications: Masters/PhD in bioinformatics or related fields; strong programming and data analysis skills required.
  • Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusivity and equal opportunity in the workplace.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?

At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients. Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible. Lead (Staff) Bioinformatics Scientist Cambridge, UK Hybrid / Onsite / Or Remote (UK)

The Staff Bioinformatics Scientist will work alongside engineering, chemistry and assay teams on R&D projects delivering new sequencing platforms and technologies. In this role, the Staff Scientist will represent bioinformatics in cross-functional programs:

  • Defining bioinformatics milestones and requirements · Leading data analysis activities

  • Developing novel tools and pipelines

  • Contributing to project strategy

In addition to strong bioinformatics and programming skills, this position requires a high degree of initiative and cross-team collaboration, as well as a thorough understanding of the product development process.

Responsibilities:

  • Represent bioinformatics in R&D projects across multiple sites for the design, development and validation of novel sequencing products.

  • Lead the data quality and bioinformatics function in a research or product development team, including defining milestones, establishing work priorities, and delegating tasks to other sub-team members as needed.

  • Collaborate with subject matter experts across R&D functions to understand, define, and communicate sequencing technology requirements for research and clinical applications.

  • Contribute to the planning and execution of a comprehensive strategy for assessing quality of data from existing and novel sequencing technologies.

  • Lead the analysis, integration, modelling and interpretation of experimental data. ·

  • Translate complex analysis results into actionable recommendations for technology development and improvement.

  • Present results clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

  • Stay current on the latest publications and relevant research and identify established methods that should be incorporate into method development.

Listed responsibilities are an essential, but not exhaustive list, of the usual duties associated with the position. Changes to individual responsibilities may occur due to business needs.

Requirements:

· Proficient programming skills and experience with several programming

languages, such as Python, R, etc.

· Strong understanding of next-generation sequencing technologies and their

underlying principles.

· Experience working with Unix/Linux and High Performance Computing (HPC)

environments.

· Strong data analysis and visualization skills.

· Proficiency with common bioinformatics algorithms and methods. Hands on

experience of quality control and analysis of data generated from a variety of

omics, such as WGS, scRNA, somatic profiling, proteomics, methylation, etc.

· Excellent communication skills and a proven track record of collaborating with

diverse teams.

Desired:

· Experience working with cloud environments (e.g., AWS).

· Experience with workflow management languages, such as Nextflow, WDL, etc.

· Familiarity with containerization tools, such as Docker, and similar technologies.

Education:

Masters/PhD in bioinformatics, computer science, data science, engineering, mathematics or equivalent

We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact To learn more, visit: The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Lead (Staff) Bioinformatics Scientist employer: Illumina

At Illumina, we are dedicated to transforming human health through innovative genomic technology, making us an exceptional employer for those passionate about impactful work. Our inclusive culture fosters collaboration and personal growth, offering employees the chance to engage in world-changing projects while enjoying a supportive environment in Cambridge, UK. With a commitment to health equity and a zero-net pay gap, we empower our team members to thrive both professionally and personally.
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Contact Detail:

Illumina Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead (Staff) Bioinformatics Scientist

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in next-generation sequencing technologies. Being able to discuss recent publications or breakthroughs during your interview will demonstrate your passion and knowledge in the field.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your programming skills by preparing examples of projects where you've used languages like Python or R. Be ready to explain how you approached data analysis and the impact of your work on previous projects.

✨Tip Number 3

Highlight your experience with cross-functional collaboration. Prepare specific examples of how you've worked with diverse teams, particularly in R&D settings, to achieve common goals and overcome challenges.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on bioinformatics algorithms and methods. Being able to discuss how you've applied these in real-world scenarios will set you apart and show your commitment to continuous learning in this rapidly evolving field.

We think you need these skills to ace Lead (Staff) Bioinformatics Scientist

Proficient programming skills in Python and R
Strong understanding of next-generation sequencing technologies
Experience with Unix/Linux and High Performance Computing (HPC) environments
Data analysis and visualisation skills
Familiarity with bioinformatics algorithms and methods
Hands-on experience with quality control and analysis of omics data
Excellent communication skills
Collaboration with diverse teams
Experience with cloud environments (e.g., AWS)
Knowledge of workflow management languages (e.g., Nextflow, WDL)
Familiarity with containerisation tools (e.g., Docker)
Ability to translate complex analysis results into actionable recommendations
Project management and strategic planning skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your bioinformatics skills and experience relevant to the role. Emphasise your programming proficiency, familiarity with sequencing technologies, and any leadership roles you've held in cross-functional teams.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for genomic technology and how it aligns with Illumina's mission. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead data analysis activities and collaborate effectively with diverse teams.

Showcase Relevant Projects: Include examples of past projects where you have developed novel tools or pipelines, particularly those involving next-generation sequencing. Highlight your contributions to project strategy and how your work has led to actionable recommendations.

Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss your technical expertise in programming languages like Python and R, as well as your experience with Unix/Linux environments. Prepare to explain complex bioinformatics concepts in a way that is understandable to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

How to prepare for a job interview at Illumina

✨Showcase Your Technical Skills

Make sure to highlight your proficiency in programming languages like Python and R, as well as your experience with bioinformatics algorithms. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied these skills, especially in relation to next-generation sequencing technologies.

✨Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration

Since the role involves working with various teams, share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with diverse groups in the past. Emphasise your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

✨Prepare for Data Analysis Questions

Expect questions that assess your data analysis and visualisation skills. Be ready to discuss your approach to quality control and how you've handled data from different omics, such as WGS or proteomics, in previous roles.

✨Stay Updated on Industry Trends

Familiarise yourself with the latest publications and advancements in bioinformatics and genomics. Showing that you are proactive about staying current can demonstrate your passion for the field and your commitment to continuous learning.

Lead (Staff) Bioinformatics Scientist
Illumina
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  • Lead (Staff) Bioinformatics Scientist

    Cambridge
    Full-Time
    48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-09-05

  • I

    Illumina

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