Research Associate - Locke Group

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Cambridge invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in computational biology. The successful candidate will develop, adapt and evaluate models linking promoters and regulatory sequences to gene expression behaviour, working with experimental researchers to connect model predictions with measurements of gene expression.

You will explore DNA foundation models and sequence-based approaches to help address these questions, with scope to compare modelling approaches

Qualifications

• PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, systems biology or related field.
• Strong programming in Python and/or R and ML methods for biology.
• Good statistics and model evaluation skills.
• Experience with DNA sequence modelling or regulatory genomics is valued.

Responsibilities

• Develop, adapt and evaluate computational models linking promoters to gene expression.
• Collaborate with experimental researchers to connect model predictions with measurements.
• Explore DNA foundation models and sequence-based approaches to generate testable predictions.

Skills

Python

R

Machine learning

Time-series analysis

Education

PhD in computational biology

Tools

Python

R

Job description

Research

The successful candidate will develop, adapt and evaluate computational models that link promoters and other regulatory sequences to gene expression behaviour. Research questions include which sequence features influence expression variability, whether models can predict the effects of regulatory sequence changes, and how these relationships depend on environmental conditions and circadian timing.

A central focus will be exploring how DNA foundation models and other sequence-based approaches can help address these questions. The project offers scope to develop new methods, compare modelling approaches and identify regulatory features that generate testable biological predictions.

Models will be developed and tested using quantitative gene expression measurements, including fluorescent reporters, time-resolved transcriptomics and single-nucleus RNA sequencing. The post holder will work closely with experimental researchers to connect model predictions with measurements of gene expression and guide experiments that test how regulatory sequences shape expression variability and environmental responses.

The successful candidate will help shape the project's scientific and computational direction, building on their expertise and interests within these research aims.

Person Specification

Applicants should hold, or be close to obtaining, a PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, systems biology, quantitative plant science, computer science, statistics, or a related subject.

Essential requirements are strong programming skills in Python and/or R; experience developing or applying machine-learning methods to biological sequence, gene expression or related datasets; and a good understanding of statistical analysis and model evaluation.

Experience with DNA foundation models, biological sequence modelling, deep learning, regulatory genomics or interpretable predictive modelling would be particularly valuable. Familiarity with plant biology, gene expression variability, circadian biology, transcriptomics or time-series analysis would also be advantageous.

Candidates should be self-motivated, able to work independently, and enthusiastic about close collaboration with experimental researchers.

Research Environment and Career Development

The Locke group works across quantitative plant biology, gene regulatory dynamics and systems biology. The Sainsbury Laboratory offers an interdisciplinary research environment, mentoring and professional development opportunities.

The post holder will be supported in presenting and publishing research and, where appropriate, preparing applications for independent fellowships. Flexible working arrangements may be considered subject to the requirements of the role and University and Laboratory approval.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 16 months in the first instance.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.