Lead Bioinformatics Engineer

Our Lead Bioinformatics Engineer is an experienced bioinformatician with strong competencies in software engineering, data engineering and/or infrastructure.

This role is expected to provide technical expertise and leadership across multiple squads in the bioinformatics directorate.

In particular, this Lead role will play a key part in accelerating genomics research in Genomics England by leading the development of scalable bioinformatics pipelines and cloud-based infrastructure solutions.

Additionally, the successful candidate will lead the development of best practices across the chapter and directorate to ensure the delivery of high-quality, scientifically valid, production-ready code and contributes to their adoption across the company.

The post holder will be responsible for the recruitment, mentoring and line management of core and senior bioinformaticians across the Research Tribe.

Everyday responsibilities include:

• Provide technical leadership at the chapter level and across multiple squads.
• Participate in Chapter and Directorate managerial meetings and associated tasks.
• Lead on design decisions for projects across the chapter.
• Provide Subject Matter Expertise in collaboration with the Scalable Tech service.
• Foster internal and external networks of collaborators to avoid duplication of efforts, bring innovation and promote knowledge sharing.
• Define best practices for the chapter.
• Bring innovative thinking in bioinformatics and software engineering across the chapter and directorate.
• Proactively keeping up to date with the relevant areas of bioinformatics, genomics, software engineering and data engineering practices.
• Lead and manage recruitment across the chapter.
• Manage and lead an inclusive, high performing team, ensuring that we have the right skills in place to deliver our mission.

Skills and Experience for Success

We anticipate the ideal candidate will have:

• Experience in developing cloud infrastructure and have a good understanding of cloud services (AWS preferred).
• Experience in creating and productionising data/bioinformatics pipelines using workflow orchestrators (Nextflow preferred) and container technologies.
• Experience in developing CI/CD pipelines in a git repository/version control system.
• Track record of cross-functional or cross-disciplinary collaboration.
• Highly proficient in at least one programming language (e.g. Python), with a willingness to adapt and learn new languages as needed.
• Familiarity with best practices in relevant areas, willingness to champion best practices in the squad e.g., software engineering, organization, and adherence to these best practices.
• Ability to make reasoned assessments, supported by evidence, experience, or knowledge, in order to propose/challenge proposals and make decisions.
• Experience of leading, motivating and engaging team members in an inclusive manner.

Requirements

MSc equivalent or higher in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Bioinformatics or equivalent experience.