Data Scientist Degree Apprentice (Fixed Term)

This is an exciting opportunity to join the world‑leading Cambridge Stem Cell Institute as a Data Scientist Degree Apprentice, with particular focus on computational biology. As an apprentice, you will study for a Level 6 Data Scientist degree with Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), alongside gaining valuable hands‑on experience working with world‑leading scientists in a collaborative research environment. There are no tuition fees to pay.

In your first year, you will work as part of the Discovery Research Platform (DRP) computational team, which supports collaborative research across the Institute and its core facilities. You will rotate with the three senior DRP researchers, gaining experience in a variety of computational biology skills and techniques including next‑generation sequencing analysis, single‑cell transcriptomics analysis, advanced image analysis, spatial transcriptomics analysis, and statistical modelling of population dynamics.

As your training progresses, you will then undertake long‑term research project(s) under the supervision of one or more DRP members. This will involve carrying out independent computational work and contributing to biomedical research.

You will attend Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge for lectures and workshops one day each week during term time, with 20% of your working hours dedicated to “off‑the‑job” learning.

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• Analyse biological datasets with guidance from senior colleagues, helping to evaluate results and carry out computational analyses.
  
• Learn and apply methods for analysing spatial and single‑cell transcriptomics data as well as imaging data.
  
• Support the development and use of quantitative models for population dynamics, lineage tracing, and trajectory analysis.
  
• Actively develop technical and scientific skills, showing willingness to learn new computational and statistical methods.
  
• Identify issues in data or analysis workflows and apply appropriate quantitative or computational methods, with support, to help resolve them.
  
• Carry out exploratory data analysis and basic hypothesis‑driven statistical tests to help extract insight from large biological datasets.
  
• Communicate analysis steps and results clearly in written summaries and presentations, working with multidisciplinary research teams.
  

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• On‑the‑job training from experienced computational and research staff within a supportive team environment.
  
• Regular meetings with your line manager and supervisors to support your learning and development.
  
• Dedicated off‑the‑job learning time (20%) to complete your Level 6 Data Scientist degree apprenticeship at Anglia Ruskin University.
  
• The opportunity to gain a BSc (Hons) Data Scientist degree upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.
  

You will need to have a strong interest in biological science and computational approaches and be motivated to learn new skills. You should be able to communicate clearly with others and work effectively as part of a team. You will be organised, resourceful, have good attention to detail and be able to manage tasks independently. You will need to have experience in programming languages, preferably Python.

You must be educated to A Level or equivalent in 3 subjects including Computer Science with a minimum of 112 UCAS points. GCSE Maths and English at grade C/4 or above are essential.

This Apprenticeship is for a fixed term of 4 years and 6 months, and will start on September 2026. The role is full-time for 36.5 hours per week (Monday − Friday).

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to: Dr Melania Barile.

Click the “Apply” button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Please ensure that you outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role on the online application form.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

Closing date: 12th April 2026

Interview date: to be held shortly after closing date

Please quote reference PS48932 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.