Research Associate x 2 (Fixed Term)

at  University of Cambridge

FULL TIME, FIXED TERM TO 14TH JANUARY 2027

We are seeking two highly motivated researchers to join the Welllcome Trust funded Autism and Health Research Programme at the University of Cambridge. These positions offer exciting opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research investigating the genetic correlates of autism and related conditions.
Position 1 will focus on investigating the genetics of neurodevelopmental and autistic traits and their relationship with autism and health outcomes, utilising data from both general population cohorts (UK Biobank, MCS, ALSPAC) and clinical cohorts (SPARK, SSC, Genomics England).
Position 2 will explore the genetic links between autism, developmental delays, and health outcomes, with a particular focus on the combined role of common and rare genetic variants and their relationship to developmental milestones and neurodevelopmental conditions.
The role holder will be working with Dr Varun Warrier in Cambridge (Neurodevelopmental Research Group), Professor Simon Baron-Cohen and Dr Carrie Allison (Autism Research Centre ¿ see www.autismresearchcentre.com). The appointee will also closely collaborate with Dr Hilary Martin (Human Genetics Unit) at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• PhD in genetics, bioinformatics, statistical genetics, or related field
• Strong programming skills (R, Python, or similar)
• Experience with genetic data analysis (e.g, GWAS, polygenic score analyses)
• Excellent statistical and analytical skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Publication track record

• Conduct genome-wide association studies and other genetic analyses
• Analyse large-scale datasets using advanced statistical methods
• Develop and implement analytical pipelines for genetic data processing
• Write scientific papers for peer-reviewed journals
• Present findings at national and international conferences
• Contribute to the wider research program and departmental activities