Bioinformatician - Bacterial Genomics

Do you want to help us improve human health and understand life on Earth? Make your mark by shaping the future to enable or deliver life-changing science to solve some of humanity\’s greatest challenges.

We are looking to recruit a Senior bioinformatician to join our team to conduct large-scale analyses of bacterial genomes and biochemical structures, with a focus on the bacterial capsule. This will be a fixed-term, externally funded position.

About the Role:

This role involves analyzing data to uncover biological insights into capsule composition, diversity, and function. You will map the genetic and structural landscape of the bacterial capsule and apply advanced AI and machine learning models to predict capsular structure directly from genomic data. This is an exciting opportunity to join an international research team at Wellcome Sanger Institute and collaborate closely with Lees Group at EMBL-EBI.

About You:

We welcome applications from candidates who recently completed their PhD as well as those with postdoctoral experience. We seek a talented, motivated individual with an interest in microbial genomics, biochemistry, and AI to understand bacterial capsules.

The role requires experience in microbial genomics, statistical genetics, AI, or related disciplines, with demonstrated expertise in applying bioinformatics and AI to analyze complex datasets.

About Us:

This 1.5-year post is based in the Bentley Group, part of Parasites and Microbes at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, which has a world-class record of pioneering large-scale genomic data analysis to understand pathogen biology, epidemiology, and evolution.

You will join a team engaged in research topics like pathogen transmission, global spread of high-risk strains, and resistance evolution. Our multidisciplinary team includes microbiologists, mathematicians, and bioinformaticians.

Recent publications include:

• Genetic Analysis of the Capsular Biosynthetic Locus from All 90 Pneumococcal Serotypes
• Update on the evolving landscape of pneumococcal capsule types: new discoveries and way forward

Essential Technical Skills:

• PhD or equivalent in statistical genetics, microbial genomics, computational biology, or related fields
• Experience analyzing genomic data and applying AI in biological research
• Ability to design, perform, and interpret statistical analyses
• Proficiency in scripting languages
• Proven publication record

Essential Competencies and Behaviors:

• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across disciplines
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail
• Keen to learn and share scientific ideas

Other Information:

For informal inquiries, contact Stephen Bentley at sdb@sanger.ac.uk.

Application Process:

Please submit your CV and cover letter explaining your motivation and how your skills meet the criteria. The salary range is £44,905 to £52,000 per annum, depending on experience. The role is a 17-month fixed-term contract. Closing date: 20th July 2025. Interviews are scheduled for late July and early August.

Hybrid Working and Inclusion:

We support hybrid working for better work-life balance and collaboration. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, with support networks for LGBTQ+, parents and carers, disability, and race equity. We strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Benefits:

We offer comprehensive wellbeing programs and are committed to supporting technicians and all staff in their professional development.

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