Group Leader - Generative Biology and AI
Join to apply for the Group Leader - Generative Biology and AI role at Wellcome Sanger Institute
Do you want to help us improve human health and understand life on Earth? Make your mark by shaping the future to enable or deliver life‑changing science to solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges.
About The Programme
Our mission is bold: to generate data at scale to train the next generation of AI models to make molecular biology predictive and programmable. The world‑class programme merges large‑scale data generation with artificial intelligence and cutting‑edge synthetic genomics. You’ll join a group of creative faculty including Ben Lehner, Jussi Taipale and Leopold Parts, with an incoming senior group leader in AI/machine learning and strong links across the Institute’s diverse programmes – Cellular Genetics, Human Genetics, Cancer, Ageing and Somatic Mutation, Parasites and Microbes, and Tree of Life – as well as with Sanger Scientific Operations and Informatics and Digital Solutions.
Who We’re Looking For
* Data generation at scale for quantitative protein, RNA and cellular pathway design
* AI and machine learning for biological design and engineering
* Generative chemistry and chemical biology at scale
* Massively parallel design‑test cycles for synthetic and generative biology
* Enzyme engineering and enzyme design
* Synthetic genomics: genome synthesis and engineering at scale
* Molecular, biophysical and kinetic characterisation of proteins and RNAs at scale
* Data generation and model development for sequence‑encoded control of gene expression
The Role: Faculty with Vision, Long‑Term Funding and Scientific Freedom
Group Leader 1 positions are designed for scientists establishing their first research group 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 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.
We will also consider applications from later‑stage researchers in exceptional circumstances. The Institute appoints faculty at three levels:
1. Group Leader 1 (GL1): First or second group leader role (equivalent to Assistant Professor US / Lecturer UK). Eight‑year post, core funded beyond a typical ERC or R01 grant with additional access to funds for large strategic projects.
2. 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.
3. Group Leader 3 (GL3): Senior leadership role (Full Professor) helping to shape Sanger’s long‑term research strategy. Ongoing tenure 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.
* 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.
Benefits
Our faculty and employees benefit from flexible working options, family‑friendly policies, generous benefits, and comprehensive relocation support.
Application Process
* Curriculum vitae, a complete list of publications and details of three referees
* A two‑page cover letter summarising your scientific leadership and wider contributions (including diversity and inclusion initiatives, mentorship and public engagement)
* Research vision addressing a fundamental problem (3 pages + 250‑word abstract)
* Fit with our programme (direction, ambition and scale, explaining why Sanger is the right environment)
* What you’ll do that can’t be done elsewhere
Interview Process
* Scientific talks (past and future research)
* Panel interview based on leadership, collaboration, and core behavioural competencies
* Stakeholder 1:1s with Group Leaders and Programme leads
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.
For further details about the opportunity, please visit: 🔗 Brochure Link
Closing date:
11th January 2026
Interviews:
Week commencing 23rd February 2026
Hybrid Working At Wellcome Sanger
We recognise that there are many benefits to hybrid working; including an improved work‑life balance, with more focused time, as well as the ability to organise working time so that collaborative opportunities and team discussions are facilitated on campus. The hybrid working arrangement will vary for different roles and teams. The nature of your role and the type of work you do will determine if a hybrid working arrangement is possible.
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 the following staff networks, LGBTQ+, Parents and Carers, Disability and Race Equity to bring people together to share experiences, offer specific support and development opportunities and raise awareness. The networks are also a place for allies to provide support to others.
We want our people to be whoever they want to be because we believe people who bring their best selves to work, do their best work. That’s why we’re committed to creating a truly inclusive culture at Sanger Institute. We will consider all individuals without discrimination and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, where everyone can thrive.
Our Benefits
We are proud to deliver an awarding campus‑wide employee wellbeing strategy and programme. The importance of good health and adopting a healthier lifestyle and the commitment to reduce work‑related stress is strongly acknowledged and recognised at Sanger Institute.
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