MRC Uganda

Research Assistant-Bioinformatics

MRC Uganda

Uganda Full time Others
Posted: Jun 17, 2026 2 days ago Deadline: Jun 30, 2026 11 views

Job Description

 
 JOB SUMMARY
The MRC Uganda position supports bioinformatics and genomic analysis focused on exploring the genetic risk of cardiometabolic traits in African populations, particularly within the Uganda Genome Resource. The role contributes to PhD-level research aimed at improving disease prevention and advancing precision medicine through large-scale genomic data analysis.
The successful candidate will work within a multidisciplinary research environment combining genetic epidemiology, computational genomics, and bioinformatics to generate evidence for improved health outcomes in Africa.
KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Genomic Epidemiology & Data Analysis
Conduct advanced genomic epidemiology analyses focused on cardiometabolic traits, including Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS), Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) analysis, fine-mapping, and Mendelian Randomization (MR) using both newly generated and existing African genomic datasets.
 Study Design & Implementation
Contribute to the design and implementation of genomic epidemiology studies within established African cohorts, ensuring robust research methodologies and high-quality outputs.
 Genetic Association & Variant Analysis
Perform large-scale genetic association analyses and apply advanced computational methods such as fine-mapping to identify genetic variants linked to disease traits.
 Data Integration & Harmonization
Integrate, clean, and harmonize genomic datasets from multiple sources to enable combined and high-quality downstream analysis.
 Polygenic Risk Score Evaluation
Assess the applicability, accuracy, and performance of Polygenic Risk Scores within African populations and contribute to improving predictive models.
 Scientific Writing & Publication
Contribute to scientific manuscripts, reports, and publications, and support dissemination of research findings in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
 Research Development & PhD Contribution
Develop research questions, objectives, and proposals to support ongoing and future studies, and successfully complete a PhD thesis in line with academic requirements.
 Mentorship & Collaboration
Contribute to supervision and mentoring of junior researchers or students where applicable, and actively participate in multidisciplinary research collaborations.
 Academic Engagement & Training
Participate in research group meetings, seminars, journal clubs, and undertake continuous professional development and training activities.
 QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Laboratory Technology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or related field
  • Must be enrolled in a PhD programme in Biomedical Sciences, Genetic Epidemiology, Bioinformatics, Computational Genomics, or a related field
  • Master of Science in Bioinformatics
  • Training in GDPR and HSP/GCP
  • Experience in Genetic Epidemiology, Computational Genomics, or Bioinformatics
  • Strong knowledge of Linux, R programming, and statistical computing
  • Experience working with high-performance computing (HPC) clusters and parallel computation
  • Familiarity with bioinformatics tools for large-scale genetic data analysis
 SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Luganda
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams
  • Ability to perform under pressure and adapt to evolving research demands
  • High integrity, professionalism, and reliability
  • Self-driven, motivated, and results-oriented mindset
  • Open-minded, proactive, and willing to continuously learn and develop
  • Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
 APPLICATION INFORMATION
Deadline: 30th June 2026
Application mode: Online submission via provided link
Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

About Company

MRC Uganda

MRC Uganda

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Job Overview

  • Job Type: Full time
  • Experience Level: Intermediate
  • Education Level: Bachelors
  • Vacancies: 1
  • Category: Others
  • Location: Uganda
  • Application: External Website