Research Assistant/Research Associate (Computational Biologist) (Fixed Term)

at  University of Cambridge

DO YOU WANT YOUR RESEARCH TO TRANSLATE INTO THE CLINIC?

This is an exciting opportunity to join a cutting-edge research group at the University of Cambridge. The Fitzgerald group pioneered the use of a capsule sponge medical device to screen for the precancerous condition Barrett’s Oesophagus. This condition can progress to oesophageal adenocarcinoma which has a staggeringly poor 5-year survival rate of less than 5%. This project seeks to apply state-of-the-art computational approaches to whole genome sequencing data to identify pre-cancerous and cancerous changes. In the future this work may contribute towards a national screening program for oesophageal disease.

PHD (OR CLOSE TO OBTAINING) QUALIFICATION - A POST HOLDER WILL BE APPOINTED TO RESEARCH ASSOCIATE, GRADE 7

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.
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PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

The Early Cancer Institute at the University of Cambridge (https://www.earlycancer.cam.ac.uk/) is the UK’s only institute dedicated to Early Cancer; a world-leading centre for research into the development, early detection and interception of cancer. The Fitzgerald Group have pioneered non-endoscopic tests for the early diagnosis of oesophageal cancer and a large multi-centre definitive screening trial BEST4 is starting recruitment in late 2024. The purpose of this role is to further refine diagnostic biomarkers to ensure scalability of capsule sponge screening tests and improve risk stratification.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• To analyse shallow-depth whole-genome-sequencing data from capsule sponge samples
• To identify features of the data that could act as biomarkers to diagnose disease progression
• Actively participate in the Fitzgerald Group and more broadly in the Early Cancer Institute to promote a friendly, kind and inclusive research culture pursuing research excellence
• Publish research work in appropriate journals and disseminate research findings by presenting at national and international conferences and using other appropriate media
• Communicate complex and conceptual ideas to those with limited knowledge and understanding as well as to peers using high level skills and a range of media
• Continually update and expand knowledge in early detection and engage in continuing professional development.