Research Assistant/Associate - Population Genetics

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

The Role
Are you a data scientist with a passion for population genetics? Are you looking to join a vibrant multi-disciplinary team working on well-characterised patient and large population cohorts? Are you interested in how mitochondrial DNA mutations affect people in different ways?

We are looking for a motivated statistical geneticist to join our dynamic research team, backed by significant funding from a recently awarded Wellcome Career Development Award. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a team at the forefront of pioneering research from the very start of a project. You will perform large scale analyses of genetic and environmental data to understand how the nuclear genome, environmental factors and mitochondrial DNA mutations interact to drive the development of a wide-range of phenotypes linked to mitochondrial disease.

In this role, you will be based at our Newcastle Upon Tyne campus, which has fantastic transport links and state of the art facilities. You will join the world-class, multidisciplinary Newcastle Mitochondrial Research Group, renowned for our extensive experience in characterising mitochondrial function in both health and disease. The group also includes a vibrant Young Scientists Group. Our researchers work in close collaboration with NHS clinical activities, bridging basic and translational science to advance the understanding of mitochondrial biology to develop new therapies for patients and families.

The position is a fixed-term, full-time post and available for a duration of 3.5 years in the first instance, starting as soon as possible ending on the 30.06.2028.

We recognise and support diverse personal circumstances and are open to discuss flexible working arrangements.

To apply for the position, we’ll need your CV and a personal statement outlining how you are suitable for the role using evidence to highlight how you meet the essential criteria in the knowledge, skills and experience as listed in the job description.

Please focus your cover letter on the following key areas, outlining your ability and/or experience with:

• Performing large scale genetic analyses (e.g. GWAS, fine mapping, polygenic score analysis) on cohort data.
• Performing quality control and data harmonisation for clinical, genetic and environmental data across cohorts.
• Conducting large scale analysis of genetic, phenotypic, environmental and other relevant data within large population cohorts such as UK Biobank and 100K Genomes Project.
• Collaborating regularly with the Principal Investigator, team members, and external partners to ensure high-quality research and the timely achievement of project goals.

If you have any questions prior to applying, please contact Dr Sarah Pickett (sarah.pickett@ncl.ac.uk).

Find out more about the Faculty of Medical Sciences here: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/medical-sciences/
Find out more about our Research Institutes here: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/medical-sciences/research/institutes/

As part of our commitment to career development for research colleagues, the University has developed 3 levels of research role profiles. These profiles set out firstly the generic competences and responsibilities expected of role holders at each level and secondly the general qualifications and experiences needed for entry at a particular level.

Please note that if you are successful to this role, you will require a research passport before you can commence in the role.

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