Postdoctoral Researcher - Bioinformatics

Job Title

Postdoctoral Researcher - Bioinformatics

Job Number:

Closing date: 12 July 2026

Contract: 24 months, full time

Location: John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK

Main Purpose of the Job

A Postdoctoral Researcher in Bioinformatics will lead the development of bioinformatic pipelines for two projects focused on wheat rust pathogens. The role involves using MinION sequencing data and RNAseq datasets to study population dynamics and identify new sources of wheat rust resistance, working closely with partners in East Africa, South Asia, and CIMMYT.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

• Develop, test, maintain and execute bioinformatic pipelines for the two projects (30%)
• Plan, carry out and modify experiments to meet project objectives (30%)
• Contribute to smooth running of the group, supervise visitors and assist training others (10%)
• Lead data management and promote best practice (10%)
• Liaise with external stakeholders (10%)
• Assist with other duties as agreed (5%)
• Disseminate research findings at meetings (5%)

Person Profile - Education & Qualifications

• PhD in computer science, bioinformatics or related field (essential)
• BSc or equivalent in computer science, biology, bioinformatics or related field (essential)

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

• Skilled in Python libraries (pandas, Biopython, etc.) - essential
• Proficient in Python programming - essential
• Experience building/maintaining bioinformatic pipelines - essential
• Proficient in Bash scripting - essential
• Experience analysing large complex datasets - essential
• Experience in software testing - essential
• Experience supervising, training and mentoring - desirable

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

• Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders - essential
• Excellent time management and organisational skills - essential
• Ability to work independently, using initiative and problem solving - essential
• Excellent communication skills, written and oral - essential
• Good interpersonal skills, teamwork - essential
• Willingness to embrace expected values and behaviours at the Institute - essential
• Attention to detail - essential
• Willingness to work outside standard hours when required - essential
• Promotes equality and values diversity - essential
• Ability to undertake occasional travel (national and international) - essential
• Present a positive image of self and the Institute - essential

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunities employer and a Disability Confident organisation. We guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post. We also hold prestigious Athena SWAN Gold and Stonewall Diversity Champion awards.