Bioinformatics Scientist

Rothamsted Research is seeking a highly skilled Bioinformatics Scientist / Team Leader to join our Core Bioinformatics group. As a key member of our team, you will provide critical bioinformatics support and services to the Delivering Sustainable Wheat (DSW) research programme.

• Provide bioinformatics support for the DSW programme, including the analysis of large-scale genomic datasets, focusing on wheat and other relevant plant and fungal systems.
• Collaborate with biologists to understand their research needs and deliver tailored bioinformatics solutions.
• Lead the assembly, annotation, and analysis of genomes, with a focus on plant and fungal species.
• Develop, maintain, and enhance bioinformatics tools, pipelines, and infrastructure to ensure robust and scalable analysis.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior bioinformaticians and students, fostering a collaborative and productive working environment.
• Take on growing management responsibilities, including project oversight, and contribute to the strategic planning of bioinformatics efforts within the institute.
• Communicate complex bioinformatics concepts to non-specialist audiences, ensuring effective collaboration across disciplines.

• PhD or MSc in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related field.
• Experience in bioinformatics support roles, particularly in analysing complex genomic datasets, is highly desirable.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to work closely with biologists and researchers from diverse backgrounds.
• Proficiency in key bioinformatics tools and programming languages such as Python, R, and Bash, with experience working in HPC environments.
• Experience with plant and/or fungal genomes is advantageous but not essential.
• Demonstrated ability or interest in developing management and leadership skills.
• A track record of collaborative research and a strong publication record in bioinformatics or genomics.

• A key role within a well-established bioinformatics group at a leading research institution.
• The opportunity to support impactful research in crop science and contribute to global food security efforts.
• Professional development opportunities, including the chance to build management and leadership experience.
• A collaborative, interdisciplinary work environment that encourages innovation and growth.
• Flexible working arrangements, with the potential for hybrid working.