Your group The Goldman group at EMBL-EBI ( https://www.ebi.ac.uk/research/goldman/ ) develops methods for improving sequencing technologies and bioinformatics analyses. We often devise new algorithms, mathematical models, and approximations, and use them to process large genomic datasets. The group is currently working on the development of new phylogenetic methods for the analysis of datasets of millions of genomes in genomic epidemiology to help understand pathogen evolution and spread. Your supervisor Nicola De Maio ( https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=5qarsrQAAAAJ ) is a Research Staff Scientist who joined EMBL-EBI in 2018, after a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Oxford. His research focuses on the development and study of phylogenetic, phylogeographic, phylodynamic and population genetic methods. Nick Goldman ( https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=nblpP5sAAAAJ ) joined EMBL-EBI as Group Leader in 2002, after postdoctoral research posts with the Medical Research Council in London and the University of Cambridge. He has long experience in developing genetic sequence analysis methods to study evolution, along with algorithms for associated problems (such as multiple sequence alignment). Recently he has also worked on computational methods to improve the efficiency of Next Generation Sequencing technologies. This project will be part of a collaboration involving postdoctoral fellow Samuel Martin at EMBL-EBI, PIs Anna Zhukova, Frédéric Lemoine, and Sebastian Duchene at Institute Pasteur, and Prof Alice McHardy at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research. Your role The aim of the project will be: 1) The development and benchmarking of massive scale phylodynamic methods for inferring in unprecedented detail the evolutionary history of a pathogen, the time of epidemiological event, transmission within and between countries, and the emergence of new pathogen variants. The project will likely build on top of methodologies developed within the group (e.g. MAPLE and SPRTA ). 2) The development of methods for massive-scale simulations of pathogen transmission and evolution, to be used for testing, benchmarking, and training phylodynamic inference methods. 3) The preparation of large-scale real genomic epidemiological datasets and their phylodynamic analysis. The candidate will contribute to some, or all of these tasks, with some combination of mathematical modelling, algorithmic development, programming, and data collection and preparation. You have (or will soon have) A PhD degree, preferably in a computational, statistical, mathematical, bioinformatic or epidemiological subject. Strong computational skills, in particular programming in C++ and/or Python, and experience in software development and Unix-based environments. Proficient communication skills in both written and spoken English. Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively with other group members and external collaborators. You may also have Experience of computational genome sequence analysis, especially in phylogenetics or phylodynamics. Experience in probabilistic modelling and statistical inference. Experience in the development of scalable computational methods and using an HPC. Experience developing machine learning methods. Experience of computer code optimization Experience in programming in Java. Experience in genomic epidemiology or microbial genomics. Contract length: We are looking for a candidate who would start as soon as possible (ideally early in 2026) ; independently of the starting date, the contract will conclude at the end of October 2027, for a maximum duration of 22 months. Salary: For individuals who have obtained their PhD, the Year 1 Stipend rate is applied at £3,383.52 per month after tax but excluding pension and insurance contributions. For individuals who are yet to be awarded their PhD, an initial predoctoral rate will apply at £2,436.14 per month after tax but excluding pension and insurance contributions. Next Steps: This vacancy has a scheduled closing date of 18th January 2026 - We invite you to submit your application as soon as possible. Please include both your up-to-date CV and cover letter. * In the event that we identify a suitable candidate ahead of the scheduled closing date we may close the vacancy sooner but no earlier than Tuesday, 6th January 2026. * Application Guidance: Withi n the cover letter, please describe your research output (preprints, peer-reviewed papers, software, datasets, etc.) relevant to the advertised position, and in case of collaborative work, please include a description of your contribution. Should you be selected to be invited to interview, we will ask for two letters of recommendation to be provided ahead of your scheduled interview date. Professional development support The EMBL Fellows’ Career Service provides support and guidance to predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows across all six EMBL’s sites. Working with a dedicated Careers Advisor, this invaluable service will help you to take informed decisions about your career planning both in the short and longer term. Whether your main interest is pursuing a career path in academia, exploring opportunities in industry or exploring an independent venture, the EMBL Fellows’ Career Service with provide you with a portfolio of activities and resources to help you. To find out more please visit - EMBL-fellows-career-service Why join us Join a culture of innovation We are located on the Wellcome Genome Campus, alongside other prominent research and biotech organisations, and surrounded by beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside. This is a highly collaborative and inclusive community where our employees enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. We are committed to ensuring our employees feel valued, supported and empowered to reach their professional potential. Enjoy lots of employee benefits : Financial incentives: Monthly family and child allowances, generous stipend reviewed yearly, pension scheme, death benefit and unemployment insurances Flexible working arrangements including hybrid working patterns Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year in addition to public holidays Campus life: Free shuttle bus to and from work, on-site library, subsidised on-site gym and cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely) Family benefits: On-site nursery (Heidelberg & Hinxton), 10 days of child sick leave, paid maternity & parental leave, holiday clubs on campus and monthly family and child allowances Benefits for non-residents: Visa and financial support to relocate if you're overseas What else you need to know International applicants: We recruit internationally and successful candidates are offered visa exemptions. Read more on our page for international applicants. Diversity & Inclusion: At EMBL-EBI, we believe that diverse teams drive innovation and scientific excellence. We encourage applications from candidates of all genders, identities, nationalities, and/or any other diverse backgrounds. Job location: All our fellowships are based on-site (for at least part of each week). If you are living overseas, you will receive a generous relocation package to support you. EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here. Watch this video to find out what it's like to be a Postdoc at EMBL-EBI. How to apply: To apply please submit a cover letter and a CV through our online system. Applications will close at 23:59 CET on the date shown below. We aim to provide a response within two weeks after the closing date below. Closing Date 18/01/2026