Bioinformatician Jobs

Experts who develop and apply computational tools to analyse biological data. A critical role in the intersection of biology and computer science.

Open roles
3
Hiring companies
2

Bioinformaticians play a vital role in the biotechnology industry by developing and applying computational tools to analyse complex biological data. They work at the intersection of biology, computer science, and statistics, helping to interpret genomic sequences, protein structures, and other biological information. Bioinformaticians are in high demand across a range of sectors, including pharmaceutical R&D, genomics, and clinical research, where they contribute to the development of new drugs, therapies, and diagnostic tools.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Bioinformatician

A typical week for a bioinformatician is split between coding, data analysis, and collaboration with biologists and other scientists.

  1. 01
    Analyse large datasets using bioinformatics tools and algorithms.
  2. 02
    Develop and optimise computational pipelines for data processing.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with biologists to understand experimental design and data requirements.
  4. 04
    Present findings and insights to interdisciplinary teams.
  5. 05
    Stay updated with the latest research and technological advancements.
  6. 06
    Document and maintain code and analysis workflows.
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for bioinformaticians. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Bioinformatician

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in data analysis and pipeline development under supervision. Contribute to small projects and tasks.

  2. Level 2

    Bioinformatician

    2–5 yrs

    Lead data analysis for specific projects. Develop and maintain computational pipelines. Collaborate with cross-functional teams.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Bioinformatician

    5–8 yrs

    Oversee multiple projects and mentor junior team members. Contribute to strategic planning and research direction.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Bioinformatician

    8+ yrs

    Lead the bioinformatics team, drive innovation, and influence the organisation's research and development strategy.

Pathway

How to become a Bioinformatician

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Gain a strong foundation in biology, computer science, and statistics through a relevant degree programme.

  2. 2

    Specialised Training

    Pursue specialised training or a master's degree in bioinformatics to deepen your expertise.

  3. 3

    Entry-Level Role

    Start your career as a junior bioinformatician, working on data analysis and pipeline development.

  4. 4

    Advanced Skills

    Develop advanced skills in data analysis, software development, and project management.

  5. 5

    Leadership Position

    Progress to a senior or principal bioinformatician role, leading projects and teams.

  6. 6

    Strategic Influence

    Influence the strategic direction of the organisation through innovative research and leadership.

Live jobs

3 live roles

Bioinformatician - CRISPR - Cambridge

This role involves working on CRISPR-related projects, developing and maintaining data pipelines, and supporting lab scientists using Python or R. The position requires a minimum of 3 days per week on-site in central Cambridge, with the rest of the time potentially flexible.

Morson Edge Trumpington, Cambridgeshire, CB2 9LS, United Kingdom £400 – £425 pd
Hybrid Contract Flexible

Senior/Principal Bioinformatician - Transcriptomics

In this role, you will analyze and interpret large-scale omics datasets, focusing on bulk and single-cell RNAseq, to provide meaningful biological insights. You will develop and refine bioinformatics pipelines, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and ensure robust documentation and reproducibility. Your work will directly inform critical scientific and clinical decisions, making a significant impact on disease understanding and treatment.

VRS Recruitment Slough, United Kingdom £56,000 – £66,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Senior/Principal Bioinformatician - Transcriptomics

An exciting hybrid working opportunity has arisen for an experienced Bioinformatician to join a high-impact team supporting clinical-stage assets. Working at the interface of biology and data, you’ll play a key role in unlocking insights from complex patient-level omics datasets...

VRS UK Slough, Berkshire, United Kingdom £56,000 – £66,000 pa
FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in biology, computer science, or a related field is essential. Specialised training or a master's degree in bioinformatics is highly beneficial.

  • Key skills include programming, data analysis, statistical knowledge, and the ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams.

  • Bioinformaticians are hired by pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, biotech startups, and academic institutions.

  • Salaries vary based on experience and location. For specific salary ranges, refer to the salary section on this page.

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