Research Associate - Locke Group (Fixed Term)

A research associate in Professor James Locke's group at the Sainsbury Laboratory develops and applies machine-learning approaches, including DNA foundation models, to investigate how regulatory DNA sequences influence gene expression dynamics, variability between individual cells and plants, and responses to the environment. The postholder develops, adapts and evaluates computational models linking promoters and other regulatory sequences to expression behaviour, asking 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.

Models are tested against quantitative measurements from fluorescent reporters, time-resolved transcriptomics and single-nucleus RNA sequencing, in close collaboration with experimental researchers whose experiments the predictions help guide. The post is funded for 16 months in the first instance, with a salary range of £38,448-£46,970.

A PhD (or close to obtaining one) in computational biology, bioinformatics, systems biology, quantitative plant science, computer science, statistics or a related subject; strong Python and/or R programming; experience developing or applying machine learning to biological sequence, gene expression or related data; and a good grasp of statistical analysis and model evaluation. Experience with DNA foundation models, sequence modelling, deep learning, regulatory genomics or interpretable predictive modelling, and familiarity with plant biology, circadian biology, transcriptomics or time-series analysis, are advantageous. Applications include a CV, a cover letter and three referees.