SynGenSys is a cutting-edge biotechnology company focused on developing innovative solutions for the design and manufacture of next-generation biomedicines. By leveraging synthetic genetic systems, we aim to improve biomanufacturing processes and enhance the safety and efficacy of cell and gene therapies and mRNA vaccines.
We are seeking a proactive, analytical, and highly motivated Senior Bioinformatician to join our dynamic team. The role will involve managing, analysing and interpreting complex biological datasets from both public repositories and in-house experimental studies. Close collaboration with other computational and laboratory scientists will be essential to ensure rapid and accurate data processing across projects. They will also contribute to the ongoing development of SynGenSys’ computational platform and support customer engagement and the commercialisation of SynGenSys technology.
The ideal candidate will have a BSc or equivalent with experience in bioinformatics, computational biology, or mathematical and statistical sciences with applications in bioinformatics and/or biostatistics, and a proven track record of project delivery, ideally in an commercial setting. Strong expertise in multi-omics data analysis, including data quality control, processing, interpretation and integration of different data types is essential. Proficiency in bioinformatics-relevant programming languages is required, alongside a solid understanding of biological processes and experimental design.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain and improve in-house bioinformatics workflows to enhance scalability, performance, and usability.
- Support the onboarding, optimisation and further development of computational tools used by multidisciplinary teams across SynGenSys.
- Manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring timelines are met and results are delivered in a timely manner.
- Maintain structured project documentation, standardised reporting practices, and rigorous record-keeping to ensure reproducibility and consistency across analyses.
- Generate detailed reports, visualisations, and presentations for both internal teams and external partners, providing clear explanations of analytical methods and results.
- Coordinate with laboratory scientists to ensure smooth data transfer and effective communication of analysis results to non-experts.
- Provide technical support to fellow computational scientists to strengthen collaboration and complementary expertise across the team.
- Support engagement with stakeholders, customers and partners to contribute to the commercialisation of SynGenSys’ platform and products.
Essential Qualifications and Skills
- BSc/MSc degree or equivalent in bioinformatics, computational biology or a closely related discipline, with extensive experience in a commercial setting.
- Strong understanding of at least two from the following: genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and mammalian cell biology.
- Experience in the analysis and interpretation of omics and other biological datasets using statistical and visualisation approaches.
- Proficiency in at least two of R, Python and/or Bash scripting, with demonstrable ability to automate data analysis pipelines and write reproducible code.
- Hands-on experience with workflow management systems (e.g., CGAT, Nextflow) for building and managing pipelines.
- Familiarity with environment management tools (e.g., Conda) to handle dependencies and ensure reproducible computational environments.
- Experience analysing high-throughput sequencing data (e.g., bulk and single-cell RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq, ATAC-Seq)
- Familiarity with bioinformatics analysis tools and packages (e.g., STAR, DESeq2).
- Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple projects with changing priorities and meet deadlines.
- Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
Desirable Skills
- PhD in bioinformatics, computational biology, or mathematical and statistical sciences with applications in bioinformatics and/or biostatistics.
- Past experience developing software in a commercial setting for use in a regulated environment.
- Knowledge of regulatory genomics and transcription factor resources (e.g., JASPAR, TFLink) and/or pathway analysis tools (e.g., KEGG, Reactome).
- Experience with large-scale public biological datasets (e.g., NCBI, ENCODE, TCGA).
- Experience in design of experiments (DoE) and/or massively parallel reporter assays (MPRA), including analysis of MPRA datasets.
- Strong understanding of statistical methods applied to biological data analysis.
- Application of machine learning (ML) methods to biological datasets.
- Experience with high-performance computing (HPC), job schedulers (e.g. SLURM) and parallel computing.
- Ability to generate professional reports in reproducible formats (e.g., R Markdown, HTML, PDF).
- Version control using Git/GitHub.
- Familiarity with cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud).
- Familiarity with additional programming languages (e.g., SQL).
Working Environment
At SynGenSys, we foster a collaborative, inclusive, and fast-paced environment where innovation thrives. You will have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies and contribute to impactful research that has real-world applications in biopharmaceutical manufacturing and medicine. As part of our dynamic team, you will be expected to grow professionally and personally, while making meaningful contributions to the company's goals.
Located in Sheffield, you’ll be close to the Peak District National Park, giving you a great balance of city life and natural surroundings. The Peak District offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, cycling, and caving, making it an ideal place for adventure and exploration outside of work.
Hybrid working arrangements are available, with attendance required at times, particularly for meetings and collaborative work.
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme
- Cash health plan
- Death in service
- Enhanced paid sick leave
- Flexible working
Application Process
To apply submit your CV and any additional information (cover letter, portfolio, or relevant work samples) to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Suitable candidates will be invited to Sheffield to meet members of the team and discuss the role at interviews
SynGenSys is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply
Pay: From £52,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Life insurance
- Private medical insurance
- Sick pay
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Sheffield