At a Glance
- Tasks: Analyse genomic data and develop algorithms to improve breast cancer treatments.
- Company: Join the Precision Breast Cancer Institute, a leader in innovative cancer research.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options, competitive salary, and professional growth opportunities.
- Other info: Fixed-term position until August 2027; apply by 20th July 2025.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patient outcomes while collaborating with top experts in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in a quantitative field and strong programming skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 Β£ per year.
Are you passionate about driving breakthroughs in breast cancer research? Join our team at the Precision Breast Cancer Institute (PBCI), led by Professor Jean Abraham, and make a real impact on beating breast cancer. We\'re seeking a talented and highly motivated bioinformatician to revolutionise patient care and advance our world-class breast cancer research.
As a bioinformatician, you\'ll play a pivotal role in analysing large-scale genomic and clinical data, applying cutting-edge algorithms, and collaborating with renowned experts in the field. At PBCI, we believe in fostering a collaborative and encouraging work environment. We value teamwork, respect, and open communication, creating a space where ideas thrive and individuals flourish. Together, we\'ll support and inspire one another as we work towards our shared goal of improving breast cancer treatments and outcomes.
Key responsibilities and duties:
- Process, analyse, and interpret high volumes of data as part of the Personalised Breast Cancer Programme and other scientific studies. Develop automated methods and software to support large-scale bioinformatics analysis.
- Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of clinicians, biologists, and computational scientists to develop advanced algorithms and models.
- Research and validate potential biomarkers associated with breast cancer progression, treatment response, or patient outcomes, using bioinformatics tools and statistical approaches (including methods appropriate for longitudinal data).
- Contribute to therapeutic target validation by integrating genetic data and bioinformatics approaches to identify risk factors and potential treatments for breast cancer.
- Publish research findings in high-impact scientific journals and present at international conferences.
Requirements and qualifications:
- A PhD in a quantitative subject (e.g. Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Epidemiology, Health Data Science or similar).*
- Expertise in processing large genomic datasets. Experience in cancer research, including a working understanding of computational approaches for cancer genome analysis being particularly advantageous.
- Strong programming skills (e.g. Bash, R, Python) and knowledge of bioinformatics tools.
- An interest in the statistical analysis of epidemiological and genomic datasets.
- Passion for translating data into actionable insights, directly impacting patient outcomes.
- Join a vibrant and collaborative research environment with access to cutting-edge facilities, extensive datasets, and state-of-the-art technologies.
- Contribute to a programme that is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on breast cancer treatment and patient outcomes.
- Showcase your research findings through publications, conferences, and collaborations, establishing a strong foundation for a successful scientific career.
- Competitive salary and benefits package from the University of Cambridge commensurate with academic standards, providing support for your professional growth.
- Opportunity for hybrid working through a blend of remote and office working.
Join us in our mission to develop clinically useful algorithms, drive high-impact publications, and pave the way for personalised breast cancer treatments. Analyse data from cutting-edge technologies (e.g. matched tumour-normal whole genome sequencing, bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing of the tumour microenvironment, spatial transcript- and proteomics), collaborate with world-class researchers, and be part of a transformative journey. Apply now and be a catalyst for change in the global fight against breast cancer.
We welcome the opportunity to have a conversation and answer any questions you may have about the position and the PBCI. Please reach out to Prof Jean Abraham (ja344@medschl.cam )) to learn more about this exciting opportunity.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 August 2027 in the first instance.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check. This appointment also requires a Research Passport application.
Click the \'Apply\' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Applicants must have (or be close to obtaining) a PhD.
Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £34,132) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.
Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
Closing date: 20th July 2025 (23:59PM UK)
Interview Date: Week commencing 4th August 2025.
Please quote reference RD46190 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
In your application, please refer to Polytechnicpositions.com
Research Associate in Bioinformatics in Cambridge employer: Polytechnicpositions
At the Precision Breast Cancer Institute (PBCI), we are dedicated to advancing breast cancer research in a collaborative and supportive environment. Our team values open communication and teamwork, providing employees with access to cutting-edge facilities and extensive datasets, as well as opportunities for professional growth through hybrid working arrangements. Join us in making a meaningful impact on patient outcomes while building a successful scientific career.
StudySmarter Expert Adviceπ€«
We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Bioinformatics in Cambridge
β¨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the bioinformatics and cancer research fields. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet experts, including those from the Precision Breast Cancer Institute. Building these connections can provide insights into the role and potentially lead to referrals.
β¨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in breast cancer research and bioinformatics tools. Being knowledgeable about current trends and technologies will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects or experiences that showcase your programming skills and ability to analyse large datasets. Highlight any collaborative work you've done, especially if it involved multidisciplinary teams, as this aligns with the job's emphasis on teamwork.
β¨Tip Number 4
Reach out directly to Professor Jean Abraham or other team members via email to express your enthusiasm for the position. Ask insightful questions about the research being conducted at PBCI, which can help you stand out as a proactive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Bioinformatics in Cambridge
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your Covering Letter:Make sure your covering letter specifically addresses how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the Research Associate position. Highlight your expertise in bioinformatics, programming skills, and any relevant cancer research experience.
Showcase Relevant Experience:In your CV, emphasise your PhD work and any projects that involved processing large genomic datasets or developing algorithms. Include specific examples of your contributions to research and any publications or presentations you've made.
Highlight Collaboration Skills:Since the role involves working closely with a multidisciplinary team, mention any previous collaborative projects. Discuss how you effectively communicated and contributed to team goals, showcasing your ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.
Follow Application Instructions:Ensure you upload all required documents, including your CV and covering letter, as specified in the job description. Double-check that you have included your referees' details and that your application is submitted before the closing date.
How to prepare for a job interview at Polytechnicpositions
β¨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your programming skills in languages like R, Python, and Bash. Highlight any specific projects where you've processed large genomic datasets or developed bioinformatics tools, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience.
β¨Understand the Research Context
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in breast cancer research and the specific work being done at the Precision Breast Cancer Institute. This knowledge will allow you to engage in meaningful discussions and show your genuine interest in their mission.
β¨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Since the role involves working closely with a multidisciplinary team, think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated with others. Be ready to discuss how you handle differing opinions and contribute to a team environment.
β¨Articulate Your Passion for Impact
Express your enthusiasm for translating data into actionable insights that can improve patient outcomes. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to making a difference in the field of cancer research.