PhD Student - Illumina Artificial Intelligence Lab

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity? At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients. Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

Overview

Since 2001, the cost of DNA sequencing has dropped more than 100,000-fold, from $100,000,000 USD per human genome to less than $600 USD today. The explosive growth of human genetics data has created astounding new opportunities for combining ultra high throughput sequencing with bioinformatics and artificial intelligence to understand how the human genome contributes to health and disease.

Our Exceptional Multi-disciplinary Team Is Unlocking The Power Of The Genome

Illumina is recruiting for a unique industry PhD position sponsored jointly with National University of Singapore or Nanyang Technical University to work on the development of novel deep learning and computational biology algorithms for interpreting the human genome. The position will have mentors both at the Illumina Artificial Intelligence Lab and the host academic institution, and will result in a PhD at the host academic institution upon completion. Research areas may include, but are not limited to, classification of human genetic variants as benign versus pathogenic, utilizing single cell and functional genomic data to understand the sequence determinants of gene expression, deep learning, and utilizing whole genome sequencing and population sequencing data to characterizing evolutionary constraint.

A key objective is to publish research results in peer-reviewed journals to improve the accuracy, throughput, and reproducibility of genome interpretation, thereby removing barriers to clinical adoption of whole genome sequencing. This position requires strong analytical skills, initiative, autonomy, and scientific collaboration.

Responsibilities:

• Develop novel statistical and deep learning algorithms for classifying variants of unknown significance by integrating information from detailed clinical phenotypes, functional genomics, selective constraint, and protein structure.
• Be the primary contributor for scientific collaborations with Illumina’s academic, nonprofit, and industry partners, and lead a multidisciplinary team focused on achieving these aims.
• Publish and disseminate methods and findings and incorporate them into software products to the benefit of the wider genetics community.

Requirements:

• Expert in machine learning, statistics, and genomics
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific ideas to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, competitive environment with a strong record of successful delivery of complex scientific projects and publications under tight timelines.

Education:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in computer science, computational biology, bioinformatics, or related field.

About Us

As a member of Illumina’s Artificial Intelligence Lab, you will be part of an international collaboration between AI researchers and bioinformaticians in the US, UK, and Singapore. The role is based at Illumina’s purpose-built facility located in Woodlands, Singapore. Hours are flexible, and requests for remote working will be considered. You will collaborate closely with AI researchers as part of the global AI lab team.

At Illumina, expect a competitive salary and market-leading benefits. Join the global leader in the DNA sequencing industry with robust growth opportunities and career development.

Illumina believes everyone can make an impact and is an equal opportunity employer, providing employment opportunities regardless of various statuses.