Research Associate x 2 (Fixed Term)

Department/Location: Department of Psychiatry, Douglas House Cambridge/ Downing Site, Cambridge

Full Time, Fixed Term to 14th January 2027 

We are seeking two highly motivated researchers to join the Welllcome Trust funded Autism and Health Research Programme at the University of Cambridge. These positions offer exciting opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research investigating the genetic correlates of autism and related conditions. 

Position 1 will focus on investigating the genetics of neurodevelopmental and autistic traits and their relationship with autism and health outcomes, utilising data from both general population cohorts (UK Biobank, MCS, ALSPAC) and clinical cohorts (SPARK, SSC, Genomics England). 

Position 2 will explore the genetic links between autism, developmental delays, and health outcomes, with a particular focus on the combined role of common and rare genetic variants and their relationship to developmental milestones and neurodevelopmental conditions. 

The role holder will be working with Dr Varun Warrier in Cambridge (Neurodevelopmental Research Group), Professor Simon Baron-Cohen and Dr Carrie Allison (Autism Research Centre - see www.autismresearchcentre.com). The appointee will also closely collaborate with Dr Hilary Martin (Human Genetics Unit) at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Conduct genome-wide association studies and other genetic analyses
• Analyse large-scale datasets using advanced statistical methods
• Develop and implement analytical pipelines for genetic data processing
• Write scientific papers for peer-reviewed journals
• Present findings at national and international conferences
• Contribute to the wider research program and departmental activities 

Essential Requirements:

• PhD in genetics, bioinformatics, statistical genetics, or related field
• Strong programming skills (R, Python, or similar)
• Experience with genetic data analysis (e.g, GWAS, polygenic score analyses)
• Excellent statistical and analytical skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Publication track record

Desirable: 

• Experience with large-scale genomic datasets (e.g., UK Biobank or similar biobank)
• Familiarity with reproducible coding practices
• Knowledge of neurodevelopment and/or psychiatric research
• Experience in communicating complex scientific ideas to the general public

For further information, please contact Dr Varun Warrier (vw260@cam.ac.uk). 

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the apply button above.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application. 

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager. 

The closing date for applications is: 16th February 2025 

The interview date for the role is: To be confirmed 

Please quote reference RN44920 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. 

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. 

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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