Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge - Department of Genetics

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.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above.

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.