At a Glance
- Tasks: Analyse and improve genome assemblies for exciting scientific projects worldwide.
- Company: Join the Wellcome Sanger Institute, a leader in genomics and biodiversity research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, and a strong focus on employee wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in genomics while collaborating with top scientists and institutions.
- Qualifications: Advanced degree in Biological or Computational discipline and knowledge of genomics required.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 38800 - 47200 £ per year.
About the Role: The role involves generating genome assemblies for thousands of species. You will analyse and improve the resulting assemblies to generate the best possible outcome for use by the scientific community to support exciting science globally.
You will be responsible for:
- The improvement of automated genome assemblies through manual curation using bespoke software and tools.
- Providing feedback on lessons learned from the curation process to the teams generating assemblies, influencing software development and overall assembly strategy.
About You: You will have a sound knowledge of genomics and sequence assembly, and possess a high level of problem-solving skills to further improve automated genome assemblies through manual curation using bespoke software and tools. You have excellent communication skills to convey lessons learned from the curation process to those working in assembly generation, influencing software development and overall assembly strategy. You have experience of working collaboratively with others in a professional environment. You are a strong team player and disseminate knowledge and novel insights effectively to ensure constant process improvements whilst retaining consistency within the team. You are organised with the ability to work flexibly to support a number of projects and changing priorities and deliver to agreed quality and timelines. This role requires an investigative mindset, with quick decision making and dedication to finalising tasks.
Essential Technical Skills:
- Advanced degree in a Biological or Computational discipline, or equivalent experience
- Demonstrable knowledge of genomics, genome assembly and analysis
- Knowledge of the Unix computing environment, ability to modify files and run command line scripts
Essential Competencies and Behaviours:
- Excellent critical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to quickly adapt to new problems and ideas
- Ability to organise, plan and prioritise a diverse range of work to meet deadlines
- A high level of communication skills to document and convey complex information to groups with different levels of technical knowledge
- Attention to detail and the ability to work to meet timelines
- Ability to work in a team to exchange findings and ideas and to ensure consistency and highest quality
The Tree of Life (ToL) Programme investigates the diversity of complex organisms through sequencing and cellular technologies to explore the evolution of eukaryotic life, provide the raw materials for new biotechnology and deliver tools and understanding for biodiversity conservation. ToL generates genome assemblies for several large Earth BioGenome project initiatives.
Other Information: We operate a hybrid working pattern with the requirement of a minimum of 3 days working onsite in this team.
Application Process: Please apply with your CV and a Cover letter outlining how you meet the essential skills set out above, why you want to apply to this role and what value/experience you can bring.
Salary per annum: £44,905 - £53,000
Contract Type: 2 year contract
Recruitment Process: Shortlisting w/c 23rd February, Interviews w/c 2nd March or w/c 9th March
Closing date: 22nd February 2026
Hybrid Working at Wellcome Sanger: We recognise that there are many benefits to Hybrid Working; including an improved work-life balance, with more focused time, as well as the ability to organise working time so that collaborative opportunities and team discussions are facilitated on campus.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We aim to attract, recruit, retain and develop talent from the widest possible talent pool, thereby gaining insight and access to different markets to generate a greater impact on the world. We are committed to creating a truly inclusive culture at Sanger Institute.
Our Benefits: We are proud to deliver an awarding campus-wide employee wellbeing strategy and programme. The importance of good health and adopting a healthier lifestyle and the commitment to reduce work-related stress is strongly acknowledged and recognised at Sanger Institute.
Computer Biologist employer: Sanger
Contact Detail:
Sanger Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Computer Biologist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the genomics field on LinkedIn or at conferences. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got experience with genome assembly or bespoke software, consider creating a portfolio or a GitHub repository. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss how you’ve tackled challenges in past projects, especially those related to genomics and sequence analysis.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Computer Biologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in genomics and sequence assembly. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects or achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Remember, we love seeing your personality come through!
Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've tackled complex problems in the past. We’re looking for those critical thinking skills, so don’t be shy about sharing your thought process and outcomes!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it’s super easy and straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sanger
✨Know Your Genomics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of genomics and sequence assembly. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your experience where you've improved genome assemblies or tackled complex problems in this area.
✨Show Off Your Software Skills
Familiarise yourself with the bespoke software and tools mentioned in the job description. If possible, practice using similar tools or command line scripts in a Unix environment so you can confidently demonstrate your technical skills during the interview.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication is key, think about how you can convey complex information simply. Prepare to explain your past experiences in a way that showcases your ability to share insights with both technical and non-technical audiences.
✨Be a Team Player
Highlight your collaborative experiences. Think of examples where you worked effectively in a team, shared knowledge, or contributed to process improvements. This will show that you’re not just a strong individual contributor but also someone who values teamwork.