Research Fellow (Bioinformatics)

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to September 2025 

Background

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Bioinformatician to join our dynamic team and contribute to our innovative DNA synthesis screening project. The Common Mechanism for DNA Synthesis Screening is a free open-source tool providing capabilities to screen synthetic DNA orders for potential hazards. Our mission is to safeguard the bioeconomy by improving access to DNA synthesis screening capabilities.

The post holder will play a critical role in the DNA synthesis screening project by developing and implementing computational tools and algorithms to analyse large-scale genomic data. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in pathogens, bioinformatics, genomics, and data analysis, with a keen interest in synthetic biology and biosecurity.

The post holder will work within the Wheeler Lab, which brings together researchers from different disciplines to develop computational solutions to biosecurity problems. As part of this role, the post  holder will also interact with the Common Mechanism team at the newly formed International Biosecurity and Biosafety Initiative for Science and NTI | bio, who have generously supported and championed this project since 2020. 

Role Summary

• Design and develop computational pipelines for the analysis of DNA synthesis screening data
• Develop research objectives and proposals for own or joint research, with assistance of a mentor if required
• Contribute to writing bids for research funding
• Analyse and interpret data
• Operate within area of specialism
• Contribute to generating funding 
• Contribute to licensing or spin out deals with demonstrated commercial success (such as revenues, asset or company sales, IP generated) and/or public understanding of the discipline or similar

Person Specification

• First degree in area of specialism and a higher degree relevant to bioinformatics, genomics or computational biology or equivalent professional experience
• Experience in one or more of these areas would be preferred, but not essential:
  • Machine learning and artificial intelligence applications in bioinformatics
  • Synthetic biology and genetic engineering techniques
  • Cloud computing platforms and high-performance computing (HPC) environments
• High level analytical capability
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly
• Fluency in relevant models, techniques or methods (such as BLAST, HMMER, kmer-based analyses) and ability to contribute to developing new ones
• Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively 
• Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes
• Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project
• Co-ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day-to-day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly

Informal enquires can be made to Dr Nicole Wheeler, email: n.wheeler@bham.ac.uk 

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.

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