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- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research in biodiversity genomics to improve human health and conservation.
- Company: Wellcome Sanger Institute, a global hub for innovative biological research.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous benefits, relocation support, and a collaborative culture.
- Why this job: Shape the future of biology while making a real impact on life on Earth.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in large-scale genomic analysis and a passion for inclusive science.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with substantial core funding and excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Do you want to help us improve human health and understand life on Earth? Shape the future of biology by leading cutting‐edge research in genomics that addresses biodiversity, conservation, biotechnology, and human health.
About the Programme
The Tree of Life Programme generates data at scale to answer fundamental questions about the diversity of life. Its world‐class sequence production is paired with focused analyses of evolution, providing insights for conservation, biotechnological progress, and human well‐being.
Who We're Looking For
We seek a visionary researcher with a track record in large‐scale genomic analysis and a commitment to inclusive, collaborative science. Potential research areas include:
- Cell atlasing across biodiversity: developing single‐cell functional genomics methods to profile cell types across the eukaryotic tree.
- Phylogenomics at megascale: designing algorithms, building toolkits, and reconstructing phylogenetic relationships using reference‐quality genomes.
- Biodiversity AI: using deep learning to discover genome organization rules, predict gene structure and regulatory systems.
- Applied biodiversity genomics: translating genomic data into conservation, landscape ecology, bioengineering, or other high‐impact fields.
The Role
You will be appointed as a Group Leader 2 (associate professor) or Group Leader 3 (full professor). These core‐funded positions provide substantial salaries, internal funding, and scientific freedom without the pressure of external grant cycles.
Your team will:
- Lead a growing core‐funded group.
- Shape programme strategy and drive large‐scale discovery.
- Mentor and develop a growing team within a collaborative, inclusive environment.
Why Join Us?
- Substantial, sustained core funding that frees you from grant cycles.
- Access to high‐throughput platforms, Informatics, and scientific operations.
- A collaborative culture built on cooperation, discovery, and translational impact.
- Inclusive workplace with relocation and visa support, flexible working, family‐friendly policies, and well‐being resources.
- A global hub within Cambridge and London, benefiting from an international innovation landscape.
Application Process
- CV, publication list, and contact details for three referees.
- Cover letter summarising your scientific leadership, diversity and inclusion initiatives, mentorship, and public engagement.
- Research vision (3 pages + 250‐word abstract) addressing a fundamental problem and explaining why the Wellcome Sanger Institute is the right environment.
- Explanation of what you will achieve at Sanger that cannot be done elsewhere.
Interview Process
- Scientific talks on past and future research.
- Panel interview assessing leadership, collaboration, and core behavioural competencies.
- Stakeholder 1:1 meetings with Group Leaders and Programme leads.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We actively seek applicants from underrepresented groups, including women, people of colour, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with disabilities. All candidates are considered without discrimination.
Benefits
Flexible working options, family‐friendly policies, generous benefits, and comprehensive relocation support.
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Closing date: 08 February 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 16th March 2026
Group Leader - Biodiversity Genomics employer: Wellcome Sanger Institute
Contact Detail:
Wellcome Sanger Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Leader - Biodiversity Genomics
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the Wellcome Sanger Institute on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into their recent research. We should be ready to discuss how our vision aligns with their goals in biodiversity genomics. Show them we mean business!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Set up mock interviews with friends or colleagues. This will help us articulate our thoughts clearly and confidently when it’s our turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, we can tailor our submission to highlight how we fit the role perfectly.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Leader - Biodiversity Genomics
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to summarise your scientific leadership and highlight any diversity and inclusion initiatives you've been part of. We want to see your passion for the role and how you can contribute to our collaborative culture.
Showcase Your Research Vision: When writing your research vision, be clear and concise. Address a fundamental problem in biodiversity genomics and explain why the Wellcome Sanger Institute is the perfect place for your work. Remember, we’re looking for innovative ideas that can’t be done elsewhere!
Tailor Your CV and Publication List: Make sure your CV and publication list are tailored to the role. Highlight relevant experience in large-scale genomic analysis and any mentoring roles you've had. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission to improve human health and understand life on Earth.
Get Your Referees Ready: Don’t forget to line up your referees! Choose people who can speak to your scientific leadership and collaborative spirit. We’ll be reaching out to them, so make sure they’re ready to share how awesome you are!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wellcome Sanger Institute
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your past research and future vision in detail. Be prepared to explain how your work aligns with the Wellcome Sanger Institute's goals, especially in biodiversity genomics. This shows your commitment and understanding of their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Group Leader, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to mentor and develop a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects or teams in the past, focusing on collaboration and inclusivity. This will highlight your fit for their culture.
✨Prepare for Panel Dynamics
During the panel interview, engage with each member by addressing their specific interests and expertise. Research who will be on the panel and tailor your responses to resonate with their backgrounds. This shows that you value their perspectives and fosters a collaborative atmosphere.
✨Articulate Your Vision Clearly
Your research vision is crucial. Make sure you can succinctly explain what you aim to achieve at the Sanger Institute and why it’s unique. Highlight how your work can contribute to conservation and biotechnology, making it clear why this role is the perfect fit for you.
