Research Fellow - Bioinformatics – Extrachromosomal DNA and tumour evolution Scientist

Research Fellow - Bioinformatics – Extrachromosomal DNA and Tumour Evolution Scientist

About the role

We are seeking a collaborative and self‑motivated bioinformatician post‑doctoral fellow to work on extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) in a vibrant, highly collegiate environment. ecDNA are circular genomic structures that can drive ultra‑high copy number amplification and correlate with poor clinical outcomes. This project will analyse ecDNA evolution over time using single‑cell RNA/ATAC sequencing and develop a ctDNA‐based approach for detecting and monitoring ecDNA to support biomarker and treatment development.

The research will utilise existing whole‑genome sequencing data from the TRACERx lung‑cancer evolution and PEACE research autopsy programmes, and will be part of the eDyNAmiC Cancer Grand Challenge.

The work will involve analysing large multi‑region matched primary and metastatic tumour datasets, developing computational pipelines for ecDNA detection, and integrating ctDNA biomarker data to provide translational insights.

Please note that to ensure an efficient recruitment process, previously unsuccessful applications will not be reconsidered unless there has been a substantial change in experience or qualifications.

The position is fixed term for 2 years.

About you

Successful applicants should have a proven track record of publications, previous experience with genomics data analysis, and fluency in at least one of the following programming languages: C++, Python or R. Strong skills in genomics and desirably experience in tumour biology, ctDNA/blood‑based biomarkers, evolutionary biology, statistics or mathematics are required.

Appointment at Grade 7 is dependent upon having been awarded a PhD; if this is not the case, initial appointment will be at Research Assistant Grade 6B, with payment at Grade 7 backdated to the date of final submission of the PhD thesis.

What we offer

• 41 days holiday (including 27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days)
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme and season ticket loan
• On‑site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme:
  Staff Support Service

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, fairness and inclusiveness, and to being a place where everyone belongs. We especially encourage applications from candidates likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds;

disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.