Research Associate

About the role

Are you interested in using your computational biology skills to improve understanding of rare tumours and identifying biomarkers that will improve patient management?

We are the world leaders in treating and undertaking research into gestational trophoblastic disease, a rare collection of disorders of the placenta that include some cancers where novel treatments and biomarkers are still urgently needed.

Due to their placental origin, these tumours are unique in that they are genetically distinct from the patient in which they arise. We know relatively little about what causes these tumours to arise and what molecular mechanisms underpin response or resistance to treatment, but a subset are diagnosed following a pre-malignancy called an atypical placental site nodule (APSN).

Using RNA sequencing and other omic data from APSN and tumours specimens, you will identify markers/pathways that predict which APSN become malignant and those that distinguish good-prognosis from poor-prognosis tumours. As well as improving our understanding of the drivers and mechanisms of resistance in these tumours which may lead to identification of new therapeutic targets, identifying prognostic biomarkers will lead to personalised risk stratification and improved clinical management.

The post is funded by Wellbeing of Women and you will work directly under the supervision of Dr Geoffrey Maher in collaboration with Prof Michael Seckl, Dr Ehsan Ghorani and Dr Baljeet Kaur, based at the world’s largest centre for this rare cancer.

What you would be doing

You will be the lead researcher analysing sequencing data from tumour specimens. The initial focus of the project is analysis of RNA sequencing data, with opportunities for analysis of circulating tumour DNA, DNA methylation and other datasets. Analysis will involve using existing tools and developing new approaches with genomics collaborators.

What we are looking for

We are seeking an individual with experience of processing and analysing genomic data using existing tools (e.g. EdgeR/DeSeq2 for RNAseq) and developing new code using programming languages such as R or python.

A PhD in computational biology or PhD in molecular biology, oncology or genetics with a demonstratable emphasis on computational analysis is essential.

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to lead the analysis of a unique dataset and to collaborate with leaders in the field of this disease to discover new biological insights & positively impact patient care.
• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to continue science for humanity.
• Grow your career: gain access to Imperial’s sector-leading dedicated career support for researchers as well as opportunities for promotion and progression.
• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 39 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal & professional wellbeing.

Further information

This role is offered on a full-time, fixed-term basis until 30th June 2028 in the first instance.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact:

Dr Geoffrey Maher (geoffrey.maher@imperial.ac.uk)

Available documents

• download: Employee Benefits Booklet.pdf
• download: Research Associate- Job Description.pdf

Please note that job descriptions are not exhaustive, and you may be asked to take on additional duties that align with the key responsibilities mentioned above.

We reserve the right to close the advert prior to the closing date stated should we receive a high volume of applications.