Job Description

Overall purpose: to advance our understanding of genome architecture and epigenetic regulation using cutting-edge single-cell and multi-omics technologies

About the Laboratory:

The Vaquerizas Laboratory at the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences is internationally recognised for pioneering research in 3D genome organisation, epigenomics and single-cell multiomics (e.g., Hug et al., Cell 2017; Galan et al., Nature Genetics 2020; Ing-Simmons et al., Nature Genetics 2021; Maziak et al., Nature Genetics 2026). Our most recent work focuses on understanding key processes in human and mouse development, male infertility, and epitranscriptomics, using cutting-edge genomic and transcriptomic technologies.

We take a multidisciplinary approach, integrating molecular biology, genomics, computational biology, and systems-level analyses to address fundamental biological questions. The lab fosters a collaborative and supportive research environment, encouraging independent scientific growth and offering access to state-of-the-art core facilities and comprehensive training opportunities.

Thematic Research Interests:

• Single-cell multiomics and spatial transcriptomics

• 3D genome architecture and nuclear organisation

• Epigenomics and epitranscriptomics in development and disease

• Model systems including human, mouse, flies, worm and beyond

• Personal research interests and innovative ideas within these themes are strongly encouraged

About the Role:
This position is ideal for a candidate with a strong foundation in molecular biology who is eager to expand into computational biology. The role offers the opportunity to work hands-on with innovative single-cell and spatial technologies, while being supported in developing programming and data analysis skills. Projects may include generating and analysing complex genomic datasets, contributing to method optimisation, and engaging in collaborative research initiatives across the institute.

Main duties / key responsibilities:

• Design, plan, and conduct high-quality, independent research aligned with the project aims.

• Critically analyse, interpret, and present experimental data with scientific rigor and reproducibility.

• Develop, refine, and implement experimental methods, protocols, and analytical techniques.

• Stay current with relevant scientific literature and integrate new findings and methodologies into ongoing research.

• Collaborate effectively with internal lab members and external partners, including participation in interdisciplinary projects.

• Provide mentorship, training, and guidance to junior researchers and PhD students.

• Contribute to the academic life of the institute by attending and participating in lab meetings, journal clubs, and seminar programmes.

• Present research findings at national and international conferences and meetings.

• Publish results in high-quality, peer-reviewed scientific journals.

• Support the smooth running of the laboratory by contributing to shared responsibilities and day-to-day operations.

• Support the preparation of research grant applications, including contributing to the development of proposals and gathering preliminary data.

Additional information:

These are MRC Postdoctoral Research Scientist positions designed to support postdoctoral training and help establish successful research careers. During the fellowship, we are committed to providing mentorship for career development, including support for communication skills, grant writing, and scientific leadership.

We offer a highly attractive benefits package, including a competitive salary and pension scheme, as well as access to world-class research facilities and training programmes.

Person Requirements:

Education / Qualifications / Training required (will be assessed from the application form):

Essential:

• PhD or due for completion in 6 months (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field (e.g., bioinformatics, computational biology, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, developmental biology, genetics)

Previous work experience required (will be assessed from the application form and at the interview)

Essential

• Strong hands-on experience in genomic molecular biology methods (e.g., RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, Cut&Run)
• Proven experience with 3D genome data generation (e.g., Micro-C or Hi-C) and analysis
• Previous experience with Drosophila genetics and stock management

Desirable:

• Advanced computational skills (R, Python)
• Experience with multiomics technologies (e.g., RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, Micro-C)

Knowledge and experience (will be assessed from the application form and at the interview)

Essential

• Strong conceptual understanding of genomics, gene regulation, developmental biology, computational biology approaches
• Experience in generating high-quality figures for publication

• Excellent written communication skills in English

Desirable:

• First-author publication or pre-print
• Experience in assembling manuscripts for publication
• Experience presenting scientific data at national or international conferences

Personal skills / Behaviours / Qualities (will be assessed at the interview)

Essential:

• Enthusiastic and motivated, with a genuine interest in scientific discovery and learning
• Independent research capability, including the ability to manage and drive projects autonomously
• Collaborative mindset, with the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented research environment
• Eagerness to learn, particularly in computational and analytical approaches
• Creativity and problem-solving skills, especially when troubleshooting complex challenges
• Excellent verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to present ideas clearly and confidently
• Good interpersonal skills, including the willingness to give and receive help and feedback
• Commitment to knowledge sharing and mentoring within the group
• Highly organised and diligent, with strong attention to detail
• Adaptability and openness to integrating new techniques and collaborating across disciplines

Additional information:

Applicants should submit one CV, a brief cover letter describing how the candidate meets the person specifications and the motivation for the post, and the names and contact details of two scientific references.

Please note that applications may be reviewed by both LMS and Imperial staff

UKRI - UK Research and Innovation

UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation.

Supporting some of the world’s most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.

More information can be found at www.ukri.org

Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI

How we support EDI in the workforce

At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community. For further information, please visit ‘How we support EDI in the workforce’.

Disability Confident Employer

As users of the disability confident scheme, any candidate who opts into the scheme and best meets the essential criteria, will be shortlisted for interview. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

How to apply

Online applications only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted covering letter and CV and not the ‘experience’ section of the application.

UKRI seeks to ensure it creates and maintains a system of openness, fairness and inclusion – a collaborative, trusted environment, which is attractive to and accessible to everyone who is interested in developing their career with us.

As part of the pre-employment checks there is a requirement to undergo Baseline Personnel Security Screening. BPSS is a pre-condition of employment and failure to achieve it may mean that the employment offer is rescinded. UKRI reserves the right to run, or re-run, security clearance as required during the course of employment.