Computational Postdoctoral Fellow - Spatial Genomics in Saffron Walden

The Cellular Genomics Programme is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to work on integrating mutational and spatial transcriptomic datasets in the Lee‑Six group. The group is focused on studying the earliest stages of childhood cancer by investigating the conditions under which cells with particular cancer‑driving mutations gain a selective advantage over their healthy neighbours. This position will be for a 2 year fixed‑term contract.

Henry Lee‑Six is a paediatric pathology registrar. His previous work has been focused on somatic mutations in normal tissues. He is starting a new group in the Cellular Genomics Programme with the aim of understanding the interplay between somatic mutations and development in childhood cancer. A major goal of the group is to investigate the relative contribution of mutation identity, cell state, and microenvironmental context in determining whether a mutant cell progresses to form a tumour. The group pursues this line of research by studying samples of children’s tumours and normal tissues with cutting‑edge spatial transcriptomic platforms coupled to different mutation‑calling technologies such as laser capture microdissection and duplex sequencing. These data are used to build models of what determines a cell’s selective advantage, which are in turn used to identify perturbations to a cell’s state or microenvironment that might change the relative fitness of a mutant clone. These in silico predictions are then tested in vitro using iPSC and cell‑line models. The group is a mixture of wet and dry lab researchers and clinicians and collaborates closely with other teams in the Cellular Genomics Programme and the wider Institute.

Responsibilities

• You will analyse large spatial genomics datasets of normal tissues and paediatric malignancies.
• A large part of the role will be to develop new methods to call somatic mutations directly from spatial transcriptomic data, and to integrate these with the transcriptomic profiles themselves and with mutational data derived from other modalities.
• You will work closely with other lab members working on complementary computational and wet lab projects, and will collaborate with other teams within the Institute and beyond.
• You will contribute to the day‑to‑day supervision of students.

About You

You understand key concepts in genomics, data processing, and high‑throughput data analysis. You will ideally have experience in the management and analysis of very large datasets. You have the clarity of thought to understand complex computational concepts, apply them to address proposed biological questions, and present the results to a diverse audience.

Essential Skills

• A PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, biostatistics or a related scientific discipline or on track to be awarded within 6 months of starting the role.
• Experience in the fields of genomics, data processing and high‑throughput data analysis.
• Extensive experience in a research environment with an established track record of productivity.
• Proficiency in one or more programming and scripting languages (R, Python, Bash).
• Strong time management and organisational skills, with the ability to meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated commitment, problem‑solving skills, and meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to summarise complex information and communicate to a wide variety of audiences in a concise and logical manner.
• Enthusiastic and proactive attitude, coupled with a strong desire to learn.

Salary £38,570‑£49,893 per annum

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. The hybrid working arrangement will vary for different roles and teams. The nature of your role and the type of work you do will determine if a hybrid working arrangement is possible.

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 have a supportive culture with the following staff networks: LGBTQ+, Parents and Carers, Disability, Gender Equity and Race Equity to bring people together to share experiences, offer specific support and development opportunities and raise awareness.