Group Leader - Biodiversity Genomics

About the Programme

Our mission is bold: to generate data at scale to address fundamental questions about the diversity of life at the genomic level. Our world class programme merges large scale data generation with focussed analysis of pattern and process in evolution, delivering to overarching goals of conservation of biodiversity, fueling a biotechnological progress and contributing to the health of human societies.

Who We're Looking For

We're seeking an exceptional researcher whose ambitions depend on diverse eukaryotic genomes and large scale analysis. We anticipate recruiting in one of the following areas:

• Cell atlasing across biodiversity: The Biodiversity Cell Atlas is a growing initiative that aims to use the technologies pioneered by the Human Cell Atlas (and colleagues in the Cellular Genetics Programme at Sanger) to profile species across the eukaryotic tree using single cell functional genomics methods to reveal cell type orthology, discover the origins of distinct cell types and reveal the regulatory systems that generate this diversity.
• Phylogenomics at megascale: devising algorithms, engineering toolkits and reconstructing phylogenetic relationships of genes and species, exploiting the power of reference quality genomes.
• Biodiversity AI: Deploying AI to discover fundamental rules of genome organisation across diversity, including gene structure and regulatory system prediction.
• Direct application of biodiversity genomics data: in conservation, landscape ecology, bioengineering or any other field with clear impact on ongoing problems humanity is facing.

If you are not sure whether your research objectives would fit into the Tree of Life, please do get in touch with Mark Blaxter to clarify.

Location and Community

The Wellcome Sanger Institute is located in the centre of the largest scientific and startup cluster in Europe and combines the scientific innovation of Cambridge with the business and cultural ambition of London. We care about the long term translation and impact of our research.

We welcome applicants from clinical, industry, or non traditional career paths. We particularly encourage applications from women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. We believe our science is enriched by a diversity of perspectives and experiences.

Role

We intend to recruit at the Group Leader 2 (equivalent to associate professor) or Group Leader 3 (equivalent to full professor) level. These positions are designed for established scientists and offer a very substantial core package, including a competitive salary and continuous internal funding that enables the pursuit of ambitious, large scale research without the need for external grants.

Faculty at the Institute are supported by outstanding scientific, technical, and operational teams, allowing them to focus on impactful research and leadership. You will have the opportunity to mentor and develop a growing team within a supportive and collegial environment where collaboration, well being, and inclusion are prioritised.

Group Leader 2 (GL2)

Mid career (Associate Professor). Lead a growing core funded team, shape programme strategy, and drive large scale discovery. Eight year post with review in year six leading to promotion to GL3 or departure by year 8.

Group Leader 3 (GL3)

Senior leadership role (Full Professor) helping to shape Sanger's long term research strategy. Ongoing appointment with six year rolling reviews. Global research leaders are encouraged to apply.

Why Join Us?

• Substantial, Sustained Core Funding: Focus on the science that matters, not grant cycles. Launch long term, high impact research.
• Scale + Technology: Unmatched access to high throughput science platforms, Scientific Operations, and Informatics infrastructure.
• A Truly Collaborative Culture: Work side by side with leading genomics experts in an environment built for cooperation, discovery and translational impact.
• A Supportive, Inclusive, and Flexible Workplace: Relocation and visa support, mentorship, flexible working, family friendly policies, and a campus dedicated to well being and scientific excellence.
• A Global Science Hub: Benefit from the dynamic, international, and high impact innovation landscape of Cambridge and London.

Application Process

Your application should include:

1. CV and full publication list + 3 referees.
2. Cover letter summarising your scientific leadership and wider contributions (including diversity and inclusion initiatives, mentorship and public engagement).
3. Research vision addressing a fundamental problem (3 pages + 250 word abstract) demonstrating:
   • Fit with our programme (direction, ambition and scale, explaining why Sanger is the right environment). >What you'll do at Sanger that can't be done elsewhere.

Interview Process

We believe recruitment should be supportive and transparent. You'll meet with teams across science, strategy, and operations to explore Sanger's full potential. Our process includes:

• Scientific Talks (on past and future research).
• Panel interview based on leadership, collaboration, and core behavioural competencies.
• Stakeholder 1:1 meetings with Group Leaders and Programme leads.

We understand balancing career opportunities with personal commitments can be challenging, and our process is designed to be flexible and supportive.

Ready to Redefine What's Possible in Biology?

Join us at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and be part of a transformative, AI powered future for life sciences. Help build the next era of synthetic genomics in an environment where your science, your voice, and your career are valued.

Closing date:

08 February 2026

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We aim to attract, recruit, retain and develop talent from the widest possible talent pool, thereby gaining insight and access to different markets to generate a greater impact on the world. We have a supportive culture with staff networks for LGBTQ+, Parents and Carers, Disability and Race Equity. We will consider all individuals without discrimination and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, where everyone can thrive.