Postdoctoral Training Fellow - Genomics and Evolutionary Dynamics

THE INSTITUTE OF CANCER RESEARCH; City Of London; On-site; GBP 44,000 - 53,000; Full time

Job summary

The Institute of Cancer Research in Sutton is seeking a Postdoctoral Training Fellow to lead data generation for the Boomers project, applying cutting-edge genomic analyses to archival tumours across decades. You will work under the guidance of Professor Trevor Graham in a highly interdisciplinary team and contribute to understanding early-onset colorectal cancer trends.

Candidates will perform molecular genomic analyses, use novel computational tools, and collaborate with dry-lab colleagues to

Qualifications

• PhD in molecular biology, bioinformatics or other relevant area.
• Proven, hands-on expertise in generating next-generation sequencing data.
• Appropriate publication record for level of experience.
• Good communication, observation and time-management skills, and the ability to interact effectively with other team members in a highly interdisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Lead data generation for the Boomers project and perform molecular genomic analyses on archival tumours.
• Investigate mutational landscapes and microbiome changes across decades using novel computational tools.

Skills

NGS data generation

Communication skills

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Time management

Education

PhD in molecular biology or bioinformatics

Job description

Key Information

Salary: From £48,429 per annum. Dependent on relevant Postdoctoral experience. Future progression is based on annual performance review.

Duration of Contract: Fixed Term for 3 years

Hours per week: 35 hours per week

Location: Sutton

Closing Date: 15 October 2026

This role is eligible for ICR Sponsorship. If this is your first visa in the UK, support will be provided for costs associated with Visa application. If you are considering relocating to the UK, further information can be found here.

Job Details

Under the guidance of Professor Trevor Graham we are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Training Fellow to contribute to our "Boomers project", where we are applying cutting-edge experimental workflows and bioinformatic analysis of archival tumours to understand the rising incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer. The successful candidate will lead the data generation of this exciting project.

The Fellow will perform a range of molecular genomic analyses on archival tumours collected from the 1950s to the present day. They will investigate how the mutational landscape and the microbiome composition have changed through the decades, and together with dry-lab colleagues, they will apply our novel computational tools to infer tumour age and growth rate (link to our recent Nature paper). They will look for patterns in the data that mimic the rising incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer through the decades, seeking to determine why colorectal cancer is becoming more common in young people, and directing prevention and treatment strategies in the clinic.

About you

The successful candidate must have:

• PhD in molecular biology, bioinformatics or other relevant area.
• Proven, hands-on expertise in generating next-generation sequencing data
• Appropriate publication record for level of experience
• Good communication, observation and time-management skills, and the ability to interact effectively with other team members in a highly interdisciplinary team.

Candidates who are nearing completion of their PhD may apply, but confirmation on awarded PhD is required within 6 months of employment.

The ICR has a workforce agreement stating that Postdoctoral Training Fellows can only be employed for up to 7 years as PDTF at the ICR, providing total postdoctoral experience (including previous employment at this level elsewhere) does not exceed 7 years.

For general information on Postdocs at The ICR, more information can be found here.

Department/Directorate Information

The Centre for Evolution and Cancer (CEC), within the Division of Cancer Biology, is a multidisciplinary centre, comprising around 50 staff dedicated to understanding cancer evolution and leveraging this knowledge for translational benefit. Our interests span early detection through to treatment of metastatic disease. The CEC brings together expertise in evolutionary theory, computational biology and bioinformatics together with cutting-edge research ability in cell and molecular biology to provide a stimulating and creative interdisciplinary environment where new approaches to tackling cancer can thrive.

The Genomics and Evolutionary Dynamics team combine molecular and cellular biology together with mathematical and computational modelling to study the evolution of malignancy. We focus on early detection in the gastrointestinal tract, colorectal cancer evolution and treatment response, and pan-cancer genomics. We perform basic research into the biology of the human body in health and disease and translate our findings to improve clinical care of patients affected by cancer.

What we offer

• A dynamic and supportive research environment
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and professional development opportunities
• Collaboration with leading researchers in the field
• Competitive salary and pension

About The Institute of Cancer Research

Why work for us?

As a member of staff, you'll have exclusive access to a range of staff benefits.

The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is one of the world's most influential cancer research institutes, with an outstanding record of achievement dating back more than 100 years. Further information about working at the ICR can be found here.

At the Institute of Cancer Research, we champion diversity as we believe it fuels innovation and drives impactful research. We welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work.

Don't let a checklist of qualifications hold you back - if you're passionate about the role, we want to hear from you. Your unique experiences and backgrounds contribute to the richness of our team. We are committed to being an equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.