We are looking for an experienced and highly motivated data analyst or computational biologist to join our multidisciplinary team (https: // www. earlycancer.cam.ac.uk/dr-harveer-dev) at the University of Cambridge Early Cancer Institute (https: // www. earlycancer.cam.ac.uk).
We are focussed on developing accurate and scalable tests that could make a significant contribution to reducing the number of cancer deaths. We are looking for a data analyst or computational biologist with experience of analysing biological data to join our multi-disciplinary cancer research team, develop our cutting-edge bioassay, and transform the lives of cancer sufferers.
Cancer survival rates are highest when diagnosed at an early stage, therefore we are developing sensitive, specific and minimally invasive tests that could inform the early detection and stratification of urological cancers. Our projects build on the results of large-scale molecular profiling studies to implement targeted high-sensitivity genomic analyses of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) in liquid biopsies. We leverage epigenetic changes that are specific features of early stage cancers. These studies generate large amounts of genome sequencing data and require bespoke analysis methods to identify rare events with high accuracy and recall.
The current version of our liquid biopsy assay promises to be transformational across clinical diagnostic pathways and cancer types, with opportunities for screening, treatment stratification and monitoring of treatment. Through access to national and international sample collections, and strategic engagement with industry partners, you will help to further develop and refine this assay, and establish novel clinical applications for our breakthrough test.
The role will involve analysis of genomic sequencing data and the modification and development of new analysis workflows that will facilitate clinical/translational testing of cancer early detection assays. This key role in our group will require extensive quantitative data analysis experience, preferably including high throughput genomic data analysis. Advanced programming skills are a must, in addition to experience of high-performance compute environments, schedulers and pipelining tools (e.g. bpipe). Experience of working in multidisciplinary teams and excellent communication skills will be needed to ensure effective cross-working with colleagues and collaborators in order to develop useful analysis workflows for clinical/translational research.
Your work will be supported by academic and clinical mentors, working alongside computational and experimental researchers, with the additional opportunity to work collaboratively with world-leading international consortia and industry partners. Effective coordination with colleagues and collaborators will be key in this role, as will enthusiasm and innovative thinking to maximise impact in these multidisciplinary projects.
For informal inquiries or more information about the role please contact Dr Harveer Dev on [email protected]
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Closing date: 26 February 2024
Interview date: to be confirmed
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.
Please quote reference RD40374 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.
Further informationDepartment of Oncology
Salary£36,024-£57,696
ReferenceRD40374
CategoryResearch
Published1 February 2024
Closing date26 February 2024