Bioinformatics/Data Engineer

Immunocore (NASDAQ: IMCR) is a pioneering, commercial-stage T cell receptor biotechnology company whose purpose is to develop and commercialize a new generation of transformative medicines which address unmet patient needs in oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune disease. Our leaders in R&D are internationally recognised as some of the biotech industry's most successful drug developers. We are creating not just an environment where great minds can interact but an innovation powerhouse answering the big questions.
Focused on delivering first-in-class biological therapies to patients, we have developed a highly innovative soluble TCR platform. Our ImmTAX molecules underpin a new generation of precision engineered drugs that harness the immune system to treat a broad spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need, including oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases.
At Immunocore, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We value the unique contributions each person brings to our team. By embracing Science, Trust, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Entrepreneurship (STRIDE), we create an environment where collaboration thrives, ideas flourish, and transformative changes happen. STRIDE represents more than just letters; it embodies our shared identity and drives our mission. We are dedicated to developing breakthrough therapies that transform patients' lives, advancing medicine, and supporting one another in these pursuits.
Immunocore is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As such, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement algorithms, software tools and databases for the analysis and interpretation of biological data. Will assist in producing fully tested, high-quality software and bioinformatic workflows in response to user requirements. Will have influence in the development of the overall system architecture, ensuring that projects are fit for purpose and scalable.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
* Develop and maintain bioinformatic pipelines for processing and analysing genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics data.
* Design and implement algorithms for biological data analysis.
* Liaise with bioinformaticians and wider scientific teams to understand project requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
* Critically identify flaws in the current system and propose solutions. Optimise existing algorithms and software tools for performance, scalability, and accuracy.
* Contribute to development and maintenance of custom software applications, databases and production-quality modules for the Immunocore pipeline database system.
* Stay current with advances in bioinformatics and data science and integrate new methodologies into our workflows.
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate bioinformatic solutions into broader research projects and workflows.
* Document and test code, algorithms and workflows. Provide training and supporting guides as required.
* Implement the integration of commercial software tools and platforms where appropriate.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Experience & knowledge
Essential
* Deep understanding of python
* Strong experience with SQL and database management systems (e.g. MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle)
* Practical experience developing data processing pipelines
* Experience working in Linux/Unix environment
* Familiar with cloud infrastructure
* Experience with API design and usage
* Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
* Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Desirable
* Proven experience as a Data Engineer or in a similar role
* Skills in R programming
* Experience of pipeline development with knowledge of domain specific languages, such as Nextflow and Snakemake
* Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and methodologies
* Exposure to the analysis of large biological omics-based datasets
* Professional experience in the development of web-based applications
* Experience with autoscaling cloud tools, or HPC
* Previously worked as part of a bioinformatics and/or software development teams
* Excellent version control habits
* Adept at writing comprehensive unit tests
* Experience in Agile methodology
* An interest in cancer, immunology, molecular biology, or genetics
* An ability to explain software development concepts to non-specialists
* Exposure to machine learning, with experience in building machine learning systems
Education & qualifications
No formal qualifications required, but degree-level computing degree preferred combined with working experience as a professional data developer.