Bioinformatician

Overview The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is a system leader for health security, providing trusted advice to government and the public and reducing inequalities in the way different communities experience and are impacted by infectious disease, environmental hazards, and other threats to health. This post is based within the Sexually Transmitted Infections Reference Laboratory (STIRL) at Colindale, part of the Bacteriology Reference Department. Key Responsibilities Lead the analysis and interpretation of bacterial genomic sequences within the Unit. Conduct whole and partial genome analyses to address evolutionary, epidemiological, and antimicrobial resistance questions. Monitor developments in bioinformatics and assess their application to the Unit and wider GRASP and MARS programmes. Provide expert technical advice on bioinformatics approaches and scientific solutions. Ensure the secure handling, storage, and retrieval of sensitive data. Troubleshoot and resolve issues with bioinformatics software and pipelines. Work with the Lead Bioinformatician, Unit Head, Technical Manager, and Quality teams to ensure the accuracy of laboratory information systems and contribute to data quality audits. Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of IT and informatics developments relevant to UKHSA operations. Identify and pursue professional development needs, attend mandatory training and collaborate closely with the Bioinformatics Unit, Reference Services, and the Central Sequencing Unit. Liaise with UKHSA ICT and stakeholders including NHS, academic and commercial partners. Undertake other reasonable duties aligned with the evolving needs of the organisation. Bioinformatics & Genomics Conduct whole and partial genome analyses to investigate evolution, epidemiology, and antimicrobial resistance. Evaluate and apply bioinformatics tools and methodologies to strengthen laboratory outputs and surveillance. Provide specialist guidance on analytical approaches, visualisation, and bioinformatics practice to colleagues and collaborators. Ensure secure handling, storage, and retrieval of genomic data in line with UKHSA governance. Develop, maintain and troubleshoot pipelines, workflows, and computational tools for operational and research needs. Work with senior scientists, management, and quality teams to maintain data integrity and accuracy. Support data quality audits and contribute to laboratory information system improvements. Maintain awareness of relevant IT and informatics developments. Assist with documentation and validation of software linked to UKAS accreditation. Qualifications & Experience Higher degree (MSc or equivalent) in Bioinformatics, Computer Science or a related subject. Experience interpreting bacterial sequences, genotyping and phylogenetic analysis. Proven experience analysing Illumina datasets and proficiency with standard bioinformatics and statistical tools for sequence assembly, alignment and interpretation. Demonstrated expertise in large‑scale analyses of molecular sequence data and programming/scripting languages such as Python, Perl or C. Experience of coordinating projects in complex or multi‑stakeholder scientific environments. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to produce scientific reports, correspondence and presentations for diverse audiences. Desirable Skills Knowledge and experience using high‑performance computing clusters and version control systems (e.g. Git). Experience with software containerisation (e.g. Singularity) and workflow managers (e.g. Nextflow) for pipeline development. Understanding of database design, architecture, and implementation. Experience authoring or contributing to peer‑reviewed publications in bacterial genomics or STIs. Benefits & Working Arrangements Hybrid working – minimum of 60% of hours on site. Defined benefit pension scheme with employer contributions. Cycle‑to‑work salary sacrifice scheme, season ticket advances and payroll giving. Retail discounts and cashback platform. Flexible working options including part‑time, job‑share and condensed hours. Generous maternity, paternity and adoption leave package. Application Process Applicants must complete the application form and provide a 700‑word supporting statement. The supporting statement should outline how your skills, experience and knowledge demonstrate suitability for the role. Please do not email CVs; the application will be marked as a combined submission. Longlisting will consider three categories: Meets all essential criteria; Meets some essential criteria; Meets none. Successful candidates will be invited for a competency‑based interview, including a technical presentation. Security & Vetting Successful applicants must hold a Counter‑Terrorism Check (CTC) clearance, obtained after living in the UK for the required period. Equality & Inclusion We pride ourselves as an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promotes equality of opportunity and actively encourages applications from under‑represented groups. We aim to create an inclusive culture that removes barriers and promotes equity. #J-18808-Ljbffr