Research Associate (2 Posts Available)

Vacancy terms: Full time fixed term contract until 31/10/2030

Hours per week: 37.5

About the role

You will play a central role in the design, development and delivery of large-scale statistical genetic and genomic epidemiology projects that support and inform drug development. Working within an internationally renowned research group funded by the Wellcome Trust, MRC, NIHR and major industry partners, you will contribute to programmes that leverage extensive linked electronic healthcare data to advance understanding of the genomic determinants of human disease. Key areas of research include an £8.8 million Wellcome Trust Discovery Award focusing on lung function impairment, multi-ancestry genomic and phenomic studies with Orion Pharma, and large-scale genome-wide association studies involving common and rare variants in the EXCEED Cohort Study.

As part of the Genetic Epidemiology Group, you will lead complex analyses across large genomic and phenotypic datasets, engage with collaborating scientists, and contribute to high-quality publications, presentations and future funding proposals. You will also have opportunities to support multidisciplinary collaborations, present findings nationally and internationally, and contribute to the University’s broader research, outreach and teaching activities as a valued member of our academic community.

About you

You will hold (or be close to completing) a PhD in statistical genetics, genetic epidemiology or an equivalent field, and you will have demonstrable experience in the statistical and computational methods underpinning statistical genetics research. You will bring strong quantitative and programming skills, experience working with large-scale genomic or healthcare datasets, and a clear track record of research productivity. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are essential.

You will be committed to developing your own professional skills while contributing to the growth of colleagues and students within the research team. A willingness to engage with internal and external stakeholders, contribute to wider University activities, and uphold the University’s values of inclusivity, inspiration and impact is integral to success in this role. Experience with biobank platforms, electronic healthcare records or interdisciplinary research would be advantageous.

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcome and can be made to Professor Martin Tobin at martin.tobin@leicester.ac.uk

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.  

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Advert closes midnight on: 07 April 2026

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