Bioinformatician

Job description

Summary of the Job: Unlocking Genetic Mysteries in Bone and Joint Diseases

As a Bioinformatician in the Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of common and rare bone and joint diseases, with a particular focus on ankylosing spondylitis. Joining the esteemed research group led by Professors Matt Brown and Emma Duncan, you will contribute to groundbreaking genetic analyses that aim to unravel the intricate complexities of these debilitating conditions.

Purpose of the Role

The primary purpose of this role is to harness advanced bioinformatics approaches to decode the genetic underpinnings of bone and joint diseases including identification of new disease-associated loci and downstream analyses. This will include investigating functional mechanisms of disease, research into polygenic risk scores (including clinical implementation) and identification of novel therapeutic interventions and personalized treatment strategies.

Responsibilities

As a key member of our research team, you will collaborate closely with Professors Matt Brown and Emma Duncan, contributing to gene-mapping studies, functional genomics analysis and polygenic risk score studies. Your expertise will be instrumental in fostering collaboration within our global network of researchers, collectively working towards advancing our understanding of bone and joint diseases. Additionally, you will be responsible for translating complex genetic data into meaningful insights, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.

About the Department and University

The Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics at King's College London is at the forefront of human genetics research, boasting a rich history of groundbreaking discoveries. As a leading global university, King's College London provides an intellectually stimulating environment, nurturing creativity and innovation. Researchers in the department have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, facilitating cutting-edge genetic research.

This post will be offered on an a fixed-term contract for 12 months.

This is a full-time post.

Skills, knowledge, and experience

Essential criteria

• A postgraduate degree (MSc or PhD) in bioinformatics, genomics or a related field, providing a solid foundation in the principles of genetic analysis
• Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in bioinformatics, such as Python or R. The ability to develop and implement computational solutions for genetic analysis
• In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with relevant bioinformatics tools and databases used in genetic research. Familiarity with tools for gene mapping, functional genomics analysis and polygenic risk score studies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex genetic concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Proven ability to contribute to scientific publications and presentations
• Ability to adapt to evolving research priorities and methodologies in the field of genetics. Demonstrated flexibility and openness to incorporating new technologies and approaches into research practices
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to plan, execute and deliver on research objectives effectively and within specified timelines

Desirable criteria

• A track record of successful collaboration in research projects, ideally with experience in interdisciplinary teams. Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including researchers, clinicians and global collaborators
• Experience translating genetic data into actionable insights with potential clinical applications. A demonstrated understanding of the practical implications of genetic findings for the development of therapeutic interventions
• Previous experience with laboratory-based functional genomics methodologies, demonstrating a practical understanding of integrating wet-lab techniques with computational analyses

Closing date: 15 April 2024

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