Research Fellow in Cancer Bioinformatics

The Cancer Sciences Unit in Southampton, with over 100 scientists, clinicians and associated staff, has a long and distinguished record in the study of Cancer. 

We are now seeking a research scientist to investigate gene expression changes in various cancers; particularly within the tumour microenvironment. The candidate will work on a number of CRUK funded research programmes, predominantly as part of a team investigating the biology and immunotherapy of cancer led by Professors Mark Cragg and Jon Strefford. The successful candidate will analyse next generation sequencing (NGS)-based expression data, including ATACseq, with subsequent downstream modelling and molecular studies. The ultimate aim will be to identify and functionally characterize expression patterns determining resistance to current treatments; highlighting potential therapeutic targets.

 

Job purpose

To undertake research in accordance with the specified research projects and requirements of the Bioinformatics needs of the Cancer Sciences Unit. To undertake leadership, management and engagement activities.

 

Key responsibilities

• To develop and carry out research activities focusing on the analysis of microRNA, RNASeq ATACseq signatures in samples generated through CRUK programmes.           
• Regularly disseminate findings by taking the lead in preparing publication materials for referred journals, presenting results at conferences, or exhibiting work at other appropriate events.         
• Contribute to the writing of bids for research funding.         
• Collaborate/work on original research tasks with colleagues in other institutions.         
• Carry out administrative tasks associated with specified research funding, for example risk assessment of research activities, organisation of project meetings and documentation.  Implementation of procedures required to ensure accurate and timely formal reporting and financial control.         
• Supervise the work of junior research staff.         
• Attend all relevant Academic Unit and Faculty safety and fire lectures.

 

Special requirements

• To be available to participate in fieldwork as required by the specified research project. 
• To attend national and international conferences for the purpose of disseminating research results.
• Some out of hours working as required
• Direct responsibility to Professor of Experimental Cancer Biology and Professor of Molecular Oncology.
• Additional reporting and liaison responsibilities to relevant CRUK programme grant holders, external funding bodies or sponsors.
• May be asked to serve on a relevant Academic Unit committee, for example research committee. 
• Collaborators/colleagues in other work areas and institutions.

 

Person specification

The successful candidate will have experience of the molecular and cellular analysis of cancer-associated RNAs and/or bioinformatics and work within a dynamic, productive and friendly team of geneticists, bioinformaticians and molecular / cellular biologists based at Southampton General Hospital. This project offers the opportunity to develop a wide range of NGS, bioinformatics and molecular biology skills, and provides the prospect of collaborative work with national and international opinion-leaders in the areas of computational methods for the analysis of high-throughput RNA and ATACseq data. Your work will have important implications for the clinical management of patients, including the development of better patient stratification and the identification of novel therapeutic targets.

• PhD or equivalent professional qualifications and experience in Bioinformatics
• Detailed understanding and knowledge of Bioinformatics
• Experience of large data analysis
• Experience of RNA processing and analysis using microarray techniques or NGS technology.
• Experience of handling large data sets, including sample and data tracking
• Able to organise own research activities to deadline and quality standards
• Able to develop understanding of complex problems and apply in-depth knowledge to address them
• Able to develop original techniques/methods

 

Interviews will be held on Monday 18^th December 2017. 

This is a Full Time, Fixed Term post for 3 years.

 

Informal queries should be directed to Professor Jonathan Strefford (jcs@soton.ac.uk).

Details about the Cancer Sciences Unit can be found at http://www.som.soton.ac.uk/research/cancersciences/

The Faculty of Medicine holds an Athena SWAN Silver Award demonstrating commitment to equal opportunities and gender balance in the workplace. The Faculty recognises that applicants may seek flexible working patterns which will be considered as part of the recruitment process. For further information including key benefits designed to help maintain and support employees' well-being and work-life balance, please see our working with us website pages.