Research Associate (Part Time, Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance. 

The MRC Biostatistics Unit is one of Europe's leading biostatistics research institutions. Our focus is to deliver new analytical and computational strategies based on sound statistical principles for the challenging tasks facing biomedicine and public health. 

An opportunity has arisen for a talented researcher with an interest in genetic epidemiology and developing statistical methods to join Dr Stephen Burgess's research group at the MRC Biostatistics Unit. The mission statement of the group is developing statistical methods to use genetic variation to answer clinically important questions about disease aetiology and prevention. 

The three broad aims of the group are to develop novel statistical methods, run analyses that address important clinical questions, and disseminate methods in the area of Mendelian randomization, defined as the use of genetic variants to investigate causal risk factors for disease outcomes. 

The postholder will have the opportunity to undertake methodological research in relation to Mendelian randomization. We are particularly interested in applicants with experience developing novel R packages and tackling methodological issues in applied Mendelian Randomization, including those around cohort demographics. 

An understanding of Mendelian randomization, as well as knowledge of statistical packages such as R, is thus essential. However, what is most important is an inquisitive mind and the desire to develop and apply statistical methodology to questions of substantive biological importance and disease relevance.

The successful applicant will be supported in their career development with a range of formal courses and on-the-job training. 

There are funds available for single appointment. Successful candidates will be appointed to a 3-year fixed term position at Research Associate (Grade 7). The start date for this role would be from 31st January 2026 (or later if agreed with the successful candidate). 

The Unit is situated on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, one of the world's most vibrant centres of biomedical research, which includes the University of Cambridge's Clinical School, two major hospitals, the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, and the world headquarters of Astra Zeneca.

We believe that talented and inclusive teams deliver the highest quality research. The Unit is actively seeking to increase diversity among its staff, creating opportunities for people traditionally under-represented in the biostatistics research community, including promoting an equitable representation of men and women. The Unit therefore especially encourages applications from women, from minority ethnic groups and from those with non-standard career paths. The Unit strives to maintain an environment where people can be their authentic selves. Appointment will be made on merit.

The Biostatistics Unit is committed to supporting hybrid working for all staff, but we do expect that staff will work from the office on a regular basis to help integration and to build our fantastic scientific community. Working entirely from the office is possible.

This position is part-time (22 hours per week, 0.6 FTE). 

For an informal discussion about this post, please contact stephen.burgess@mrc-bsu.cam.ac.uk.

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

Advert information