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"Research Assistant (Fixed Term)"

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Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

Research

16 March 2026

Location

Cambridge

University of Cambridge

Type

Fixed-term (4 years)

Start Date

July-October 2026

Salary

£33,002-£35,608

Required Qualifications

Computer Science degree (UG/Masters)
Pangenome software development
Burrow-Wheeler Transform (BWT) algorithms
Sparse graph algorithms
Large-scale systems optimisation
Computational genomics interest

Research Areas

Genome evolution
Transposable elements (TEs)
Pangenome
Ancestral recombination graphs
Computational genomics
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Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant position to work in the group of Professor Richard Durbin in the Department of Genetics.

The successful candidate will work on an ERC funded project to study genome evolution driven by transposable elements (TEs). They will develop novel computational infrastructure to manage very large sets of TE sequences combining pangenome and ancestral recombination graph approaches, and use this to study TE evolutionary dynamics.

The successful candidate will have an undergraduate degree and/or masters in computer science, with demonstrated previous experience (e.g. publication or GitHub site) in pangenome software development and Burrow-Wheeler transform (BWT) based algorithmic implementation, and significant experience in the broader areas of sparse graph algorithms and large-scale systems optimisation, together with a demonstrable interest in and enthusiasm for computational genomics. Previous knowledge of transposable element biology would be desirable.

This position is offered on a fixed-term basis for a period of four years in the first instance, to start after 01 July 2026 and before 01 October 2026, and includes the option to study for a directly related PhD.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

For an informal discussion about this position, please contact Professor Richard Durbin (rd109@cam.ac.uk).

Please quote reference PC48998 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Apply online

Key information

  • Department/location: Department of Genetics
  • Salary: £33,002-£35,608
  • Reference: PC48998
  • Category: Research
  • Date published: 3 March 2026
  • Closing date: 16 March 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What are the key qualifications for this Research Assistant role?

Candidates need an undergraduate degree or Masters in Computer Science, with proven experience in pangenome software development and Burrow-Wheeler Transform (BWT) algorithms (e.g., publications or GitHub). Expertise in sparse graph algorithms and large-scale systems optimisation is essential, plus enthusiasm for computational genomics. Transposable element biology knowledge is desirable. Explore research assistant jobs for similar roles.

🔬What does the role involve in Professor Durbin's group?

Work on an ERC-funded project studying genome evolution driven by transposable elements (TEs). Develop computational infrastructure for large TE sequence sets using pangenome and ancestral recombination graph methods to analyze TE evolutionary dynamics. Fixed-term for 4 years with PhD study option. See research jobs at top universities.

📅When and how to apply for this position?

Closing date: 16 March 2026. Quote reference PC48998. Apply online via the recruitment system. Start after 1 July 2026, before 1 October 2026. Contact Professor Richard Durbin at rd109@cam.ac.uk for discussions. Check postdoc success tips for application advice.

💰What is the salary and employment terms?

Salary: £33,002-£35,608. Fixed-term for 4 years in the Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge. Includes option for a directly related PhD. University supports equality, diversity, and inclusion; must be eligible to work in UK. View professor salaries for context.

🧬Is prior experience in transposable elements required?

No, but previous knowledge of transposable element biology is desirable. Core requirements focus on computational skills like pangenome, BWT, and graph algorithms. Demonstrate via publications or GitHub. Learn more in research assistant tips, adaptable globally.

📄Where can I find further particulars?

Download the Further Particulars PDF from the job post. Located in the Department of Genetics, Cambridge. For similar opportunities, browse faculty jobs or clinical research jobs.
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