Careers and Study
Working at the Sanger Institute is truly unique. We put collaboration, innovation and support for people as individuals at the centre of everything we do. Join us to help shape the future by delivering life-changing science with the reach, scale, and creativity to solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges.
We tackle some of the most difficult challenges in genomic research. This demands science at scale; a visionary and creative approach to research that pushes the boundaries of our understanding in ever new and exciting ways. Read more
Join our community of world class thinkers and professionals at the Sanger Institute located in Cambridge. Together we achieve life-changing science.
We are committed to training the next generation of pioneering genome scientists and clinicians. At the Wellome Sanger Institute we give PhD students and postdocs all the tools they need to succeed in the field of genomics research.
Our vision and mission is to deliver world-leading genomics research in collaboration with research partners across the globe. Discover how our funding gives our leadership the independence to conduct bold, ambitious science that pioneers new fields in health, disease and conservation.
By focusing on fundamental discovery research led by our faculty and employing our unique scale in cutting-edge data generation and analysis, we deliver discoveries not easily made elsewhere.
From providing fundamental resources for understanding biology to exploring cancer genomes and the effects of variation in human genomes, our work lays the foundations for personalised medicine. We also reveal the secrets of human development and how infectious diseases evolve and spread.
Discover how our leadership and structures are designed to enable holistic and effective decision making, with transparency and accountability woven into their make up.
Read how our strategy informs our research focus and how our unique funding enables our scientists to take scientific risks to pioneer new approaches.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The diversity in skills and knowledge that we all bring make our Institute the thriving ideas factory that it is. Discover how we support each other to reach our full potential and thrive. We celebrate diversity and seek to ensure that everyone has equal access to professional and career development opportunities.
We play a pivotal role in helping to shape Government and International research policies. We also lead the way in developing guidance to support our scientists to carry out their research ethically, equitably and responsibly.
We advise all levels of government both in the UK and across the world on the the role, impact and importance of genomic and life science research.
Our policies help our researchers carry out their science collaboratively, equitably, ethically and responsibly.
Admin Groups
Browse our management and support operations teams that facilitate the Sanger Institute’s science.
Campus Connections
We are sited on the Wellcome Genome Campus at the very heart of a global hub of fundamental and applied genomic research, education and engagement. It is home to some of the world’s foremost institutes and organisations using genomes and biodata to deliver science with the reach, scale and imagination to solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges and maximise societal benefit.
We tackle some of the most difficult challenges in genomic research. This demands science at scale; a visionary and creative approach to research that pushes the boundaries of our understanding in ever new and exciting ways.
Our research is organised into six primary Scientific Programmes, each defining a major area of research with a particular biological, disease, analytic or generative focus. In addition, our Associate Research programmes pioneer new approaches to studying health and disease.
Science & technology
Our science is organised into six Scientific Programmes, each defining a major area of research with a particular biological, disease, analytic or generative focus. Read more
Browse the research, scientific and support teams in the Sanger Institute.
Collaborations
Explore the national, international and global research projects and collaborations we either lead or actively contribute to.
Browse our genomic and genetic data resources and repositories.
Software and Resources
We freely and openly provide the global research community with a wide range of genomics software, protocols, and platforms.
Publications
The Sanger Institute has published papers in some of the most prestigious scientific journals. We aim to publish research that will transform biology and improve healthcare.
Research Policies
Sanger Institute’s Research Policies are designed to provide guidance to help researchers navigate the legislation relating to their research and to ensure that research is ethical and legal.
The Sanger Institute played a major role in the genomic surveillance of the COVID-19 pandemic, providing large-scale high-throughput sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and analysis of its evolution and spread in the UK.
Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown of 2020-2021 we hosted a series of monthly freely available and open virtual seminars. From using genomic approaches to map all cell types in the human body, understand how cancer develops, and track the evolution and spread of global diseases, our senior scientists and faculty presented the latest developments in their field.
Our science is organised into six Scientific Programmes, each defining a major area of research with a particular biological, disease or analytic focus. In all cases, the studies provide insights into human, pathogen, cellular evolution, the phenotypic and hence biological consequences of genome variation and the processes which cause mutations.
Our science is founded on the talents, imagination and curiosity of our people. Our wet-lab scientists, bioinformaticians, developers, engineers and skilled administrators work together to deliver cutting-edge research. Join us Read more
The Sanger Leadership Team is an Executive Committee that enables holistic and effective decision making, with transparency and accountability woven into its make up.
How we are organised to enable transparent, open, responsive leadership.
We draw on a number of experienced and internationally recognised scientists to provide independent scientific support, advice and challenge to help us maintain our scientific excellence.
Our Faculty conceive and deliver our science. Within our strategic framework the Institute’s scientific aspirations are driven by their vision, imagination and intellectual energy.
Our Associate Faculty combine their skills and knowledge with the Sanger Institute’s unique abilities to conduct data generation and analysis at scale to pioneer genomic research in new areas.
Our International Fellows Programme empowers early-career researchers with resources, mentorship, and funding to advance genomic research globally.
Our Honorary Faculty contribute to our research by providing insights and knowledge and collaborating on important research projects.
All Sanger Staff
Almost 1,000 scientists, developers, engineers and skilled professionals work together to deliver the Sanger Institute’s cutting-edge genomic research.
From PhD students and Postdoctoral Fellows, bioinformaticians and laboratory managers, search for our staff who the support the delivery of pioneering science.
Look up our management and support staff that facilitate the Sanger Institute’s science.
Innovation at the Institute
We deliver therapeutic, diagnostic and production benefits in areas as diverse as cancer, immunology, public health and personalised treatment.
Sanger Innovation
We apply our science to benefit society by empowering innovators and engaging with businesses and investors - driven by Sanger Genomics Innovation Read more
For Industry
Find out how our translation team maximises the socioeconomic impact of the Sanger Institute’s discoveries by translating our science into products, services and technologies that benefit patients in a variety of settings.
For Researchers
Read how we benefit society by buiding on the innovative capabilities of our people by engaging with businesses and creating commercial opportunities. We also develop a unique and vibrant ecosystem to establish and grow innovative genomics and biodata businesses.
Case Studies
Read examples of how we engage with funding, R&D, service and clinical communities to promote real-world utilisation of the Sanger Institute’s technologies and resources.
Our Spin-Outs
We have a culture and history of scaling technologies. Some have become spin-out companies that positively impact today’s healthcare sector.
Sanger Technologies
Browse our technology and therapy opportunities.
News and Blogs
Read our latest news and stories of the science and people of the Sanger Institute.
News and stories Announcements, articles and blogs from the cutting edge of genomic research. Read more
Press Office
The Communications team promote the Sanger Institute’s research and discoveries, using both traditional media such as print, radio interviews and TV footage and social media like Twitter, Facebook and the Sanger Institute blog
Branding and Logos
Wellcome Sanger Institute Branding Guidelines and Logos.
Latest News
12 Nov 2024
Unlocking the genetics of skin cancer Read more
A melody of bases: How scaling allows us to set new bars Read more
Claire Chewapreecha wins the 2024 Nature inspiring women in science: Scientific Achievement prize Read more
Work Experience
Our Mission
Our mission is clear: to offer inspiring and inclusive work experience opportunities that empower young individuals, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to explore the exciting world of genomics. We firmly believe that by opening our doors to students, we not only contribute to their personal growth but also contribute to the advancement of scientific understanding in genomics.
We also have a range of careers resources on Your Genome , to help people explore the range of people, roles and careers in genomics.
What We Offer
Work experience opportunity.
We have a great opportunity for young people to take part in a two day work experience opportunity in the Wellcome Sanger Institute’s Cellular Operations programme. Eight places are available, two in each of the following teams: gene editing, cell screening, cell modelling, and spatial genomics.
Dates: Thursday 5 – Friday 6 December 2024
Would you like to gain an insight into how cells are grown and studied to understand human disease?
This work experience is an introduction to molecular and cellular laboratories and is aimed at young people who have little or no lab experience.
Gene Editing:
Gene editing is a core high-throughput facility at the Wellcome Sanger Institute that supports scientific groups with its expertise in the novel gene editing techniques.
As part of the work experience scheme you will learn the basic molecular biology techniques , like PCR, gel electrophoresis and molecular cloning. You will get an insight into the day-to-day life of a molecular biologist and an introduction to bioinformatics from our staff bioinformatician. You will also learn the foundations of CRISPR editing and conduct a small project to clone your very own plasmid gRNA vector!
Cellular Modelling:
Cellular Modelling is a facility specialising in diverse high-throughput cell biology. We provide expertise in generating 3D organoid models from human primary tissues, including cancer, mucosal and reproductive tissues. Our aim is to create models that can be used by the wider research community to improve understanding towards the above disease mechanisms.
Come spend a day with our experts and dive into the fascinating world of 3D research. You would learn how these models are created, maintained, expanded and finally distributed all across the globe. You would also spend some time learning about the differences between different types of organoids and grow your own model!
Cellular Screening:
The Cellular Screening team is at the forefront of scientific discovery, harnessing the power of CRISPR technology to unlock the secrets of cellular biology. Our team is specialised in carrying out large-scale CRISPR screening projects that push the boundaries of knowledge in this field.
As part of your shadowing experience you will learn how cancer cells are grown and cultured in the lab, explore cancer models spanning from haploid cell lines to 3D organoid lines and observe how we employ CRISPR technology for genetic editing of the DNA within these cells. So come spend a day with experts in CRISPR technology and learn the basics of cell culture, gene editing and the applications of this technology in modern medicine.
Spatial Genomics:
Spatial genomics combines molecular and morphological data, mapping gene expression within a tissue sample to the physical location in which it is occurring. This expands our knowledge of tissue structure and cellular interactions, allowing investigations into disease and development.
The Spatial Genomics Platform (SGP) combines histology and molecular biology expertise to provide a Spatial Genomics service to the institute. As part of your shadowing experience you will be introduced to a variety of processes that form the spatial genomics lab workflow. This will begin with an introduction to tissue processing and histology, which is the starting point for all spatial genomic experiments. This will be followed by the morphological and molecular processes required to check sample quality. Finally, you will also be introduced to the spatial technologies used in the lab, such as Visium CytAssist and Xenium.
Students will experience talks, tours and training in different cutting-edge lab processes.
Who are the Cellular Operations work experience days for?
Applications are invited from A level and T-level students.
Where is it taking place?
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA
How do I apply?
Applications should be made via this form by 9am on 14 October 2024.
Eight places are available, two in each of the following teams: gene editing, cell screening, cell modelling, and spatial genomics.
Please include the following in your application:
Motivation: Clearly explain why you are interested in this experience, providing specific reasons for your interest.
Interest in the Sanger Institute: Describe why you have chosen the Sanger Institute and what appeals to you about it.
Preferred Team: Indicate your preferred team or area within the institute where you would like to be placed.
Successful applicants will be notified by email.
Why Choose Work Experience at Sanger Institute?
Inclusive Opportunities : We are committed to diversity and inclusivity, striving to provide opportunities for students from all backgrounds to explore genomics.
Hands-On Learning : We offer practical, hands-on experiences that go beyond classroom learning, allowing students to engage with cutting-edge research and technologies.
Expert Guidance : Interact with seasoned professionals and researchers who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and guiding students in their career aspirations.
Inspiring Environment : Immerse yourself in the dynamic and collaborative atmosphere of Sanger Institute, where breakthroughs in genomics are a daily occurrence.
Apply Today
Are you ready to embark on a journey of discovery and learning in the field of genomics? Join us in shaping the future of science and technology. Apply for our various work experience opportunities today and take your first step towards a career in genomics.
Note: Our programs have specific eligibility criteria. Please refer to the individual program links for more information on how to apply and whether you qualify for participation.
Enquire now
Please keep an eye on this page as we will have more opportunities coming up in 2024.
For any enquiries or further information, please contact us at [email protected] . We look forward to helping you take your first steps into the world of genomics!
For more placement options please sign up to our mailing list: [email protected]
Connecting Science
Connect with the diverse range of communities, learners, educators and researchers, creating opportunities and spaces to explore genomic science and its impact on people. ...more
Work Experience
Genomics, Science and Data Careers with the Wellcome Sanger Institute
Students aged 14+ are welcome to apply
Certificate of completion, over 7 hours of content.
Welcome to the fascinating world of genomics! Springpod has partnered with the Wellcome Sanger Institute to help you experience careers in genomics, science and data and discover the range of opportunities on offer. From lab and data-based roles to communications and management positions, you’ll get an inside scoop into life at a pioneering, industry-leading research campus.
What’s Included
In this virtual work experience programme, you’ll receive a top-level overview of the world of genomics - from gene editing to ethics and synthetic biology. You’ll even complete a series of quizzes and fun activities to help build your understanding of the industry, and have the ability to hear from the experts during this programme’s pre-recorded webinars.
Understanding Genomics
This module will provide a whistle-stop tour of all things genomics, including an overview of this booming industry, where it can lead, and the Wellcome Sanger Institute. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to put your knowledge to the test with this module’s myth-busting quiz - answers at the ready!
Careers in Genomics: Lab-based roles
Fancy a tour around one of the Wellcome Sanger Institute’s state-of-the-art laboratories? Well, then this module is for you! After an overview of the lab roles on offer, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a virtual lab simulation. Plus, you’ll put your health and safety knowledge to the test - eye goggles, please!
Careers in Genomics: Data-focused roles
Now a career in genomics isn’t all test tubes and laboratories! In this module, you’ll broaden your understanding of the wide variety of roles available at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. You’ll hear from the industry professionals themselves in a series of specialism spotlights, revealing what life is like as a digital associate, data scientist and more!
Careers in Genomics: Non-scientific roles
Is data not really your thing? Then don’t worry, there is still something at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. for you! This module will explore the non-scientific roles available, from management to communications. Plus, you’ll have a go at weighing in on the ethics of genomics to ensure the industry is beneficial for all.
Careers, Opportunities and Pathways
Shedding light on the pathways into genomics and the early career opportunities available, this module will help you take your first steps into the industry. Career progression opportunities at the Wellcome Sanger Institute will also be explored here.
Employability
This employability module will help equip you with those all-important transferable skills. Think teamwork, communication, organisation and interview preparation. A career roadmap activity will send you well on your way to securing your dream role at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.
Available dates
Programme dates
11th November 2024 - 5th September 2025
Eligibility criteria
FROM 14 YEARS
Hear from our student community
Aqsa saleemi, year 12 student.
Thank you for all your time and effort. The program was by far the best experience I’ve had virtually compared to other virtual experiences I’ve done. I liked the layout and the interactive activities, and I learnt a lot I didn’t know. I would definitely recommend this program to others; it was a great experience I would love to do it all again.
Wilfred Williams, Year 12 Student from London
I enjoyed the webinars since it was a good way to get a real understanding about the banking industry. There also were many tools to help build my transferrable skills, and this will benefit me when moving into the working world and further education.
Sophia Nathwani, Year 11 Student, from Hampton
I enjoyed understanding the many professions and areas within journalism that I had not been able to clearly separate prior to this programme; I particularly enjoyed the photojournalism and broadcast journalism sections, as they allowed me to explore a less conventional writing style than what I would normally use. The interactive tasks were a great way for me to demonstrate and put into practice my new knowledge, and all of the videos were extremely concise and helpful.
Ellinor Comard, Year 12 Student from Teddington
I really enjoyed how it introduced completely new and interesting technologies such as smart buildings. I also really liked the webinars as they give you an insight into what it's actually like working in a specific field.
Stephanie Oseha, Year 12 Student
A huge thank you to everyone who made this programme possible. It was a fantastic experience, and I feel more confident in myself now when applying for a job position in the future and in my personal life. I valued this experience because I realised it was okay to make mistakes and how they make you stronger for future events. I loved how efficient the Barclays team was when students and the professionals who ran the live webinars asked questions. The skills I've learnt through this virtual work experience will be used for future endeavours. So once again, thank you so much.
Jack Zhou, Year 12 Student from Kingston upon Thames
I enjoyed how interactive it was. It contains a range of videos and activities - so you aren't just reading a huge chunk of information all the time; it gets your brain to start thinking and keeps it going. Thank you very much for your hard work; it has enlightened me.
Frequently asked questions
I have a question about my application or programme eligibility.
When will I hear back if I have been successful with my application?
Once you have applied for your programme, you will receive a confirmation email. You will be notified about the outcome of your application via email at least 3 days before the programme start date. Good luck!
Can I apply to multiple programmes?
Yes, you can sign up to multiple programmes with us. The live talks will be available as recordings, so you can catch up on any potential clashes.
Who can take part in the programme? (Age limits, some programmes have location constraints but most don’t etc.)
Most of our programmes require students to be in school/college. Some programmes require students to be based in specific regions of the UK, this is stipulated by the organisations themselves, and is not defined by Springpod.
However, the ages mentioned on our programmes are more of a guideline than a strict limit. As such, we more than welcome older students to apply as well!
I have a question about my assignment
How long does it take for assignments to be reviewed?
Assignments can take up to a week or longer to review and be marked complete. Rest assured, it will be reviewed soon and your certificate will be generated once your programme has been marked as complete.
What do I do if I upload the wrong file?
If you make a mistake when uploading a file, please email [email protected] . We will be able to make a note on our system. Don’t worry, the outcome of your programme will not be affected by this.
I have a question about the programme dates, deadline or workload
How long will I have to complete this programme?
There is no specific cut-off deadline for completing your programme (although, if possible, we would encourage you to complete all the work within the time frame, alongside the live webinar sessions).
When does the programme start?
Our programmes have various start dates, you can find the exact date on the programme website page. These are available here: https://www.springpod.com/virtual-work-experience/search
You will be notified if your application has been successful, 3 days before the programme start date.
What happens if I can't finish the work experience in time?
All programme material will remain accessible after the end date of the programme. Students can continue to work through their programme after the official end date. Although, if possible, we would strongly encourage students to complete all the work within the time frame, alongside the live webinar sessions.
How much work is required for these programmes? (Will I be able/should I complete more than one programme at a time)?
There is around 10 hours worth of work in total, spread across a two week period. The live talks will be available as recordings, so you can catch up on any work whenever possible.
When do the programmes run? (programme structure etc.)
Once you have access, you can view and complete the material as and when you can, within the time frame of the course in question (for example, within a two week period). In total, there is around 10 hours worth of work. The live talks will take place during weekday working hours. However, all live talks will be available as recordings and the courses can be completed at your own convenience. . There is no specific cut-off deadline for completing your programme (although, if possible, we would encourage you to complete all the work within the time frame, alongside the live webinar sessions).
I have a question about the live talks
What happens if I can't make a live talk/webinar?
All live talks will be available as recordings. You can access these at the same link used to access the live event. So don’t worry if you can’t attend a live webinar, a recording will be available for you to access through your programme within 24 hours of the live event finishing.
What software is required for the live talks?
We use a piece of software called BigMarker. It is a cloud based video hosting software. It requires no installations or downloads on your end, and will provide everything you need to join the live webinars through one simple link.
Will I be able to ask questions/do I have to have my microphone on?
You will have a chance to ask questions at the end of each webinar. These questions are typed out and then read to the presenter by the host of the live talk. There is no need to speak, and all student microphones will be muted for the duration of the live webinar.
I have a question about the certificate
Will I receive a certificate on completion of the programme?
You will receive a certificate on completion of your programme. It will be made available to download whenever your programme is marked as complete.
I have a question about in-person work experience
Do you offer in-person work experience? We don't directly manage in person work experience but many of our virtual programmes can lead to in person opportunities, look for the programmes marked as 'Virtual to Reality'. You will need to complete the virtual programme and declare your interest via the embedded form. When will I hear if there is an in-person opportunity? Our employer partner will contact you directly about any opportunities, timescales can vary Springpod won't be able to provide any updates on progress.
I want to delete my account
How can I delete my account?
You can delete your account following the below steps
Can you please ensure you log into your account at the following link: https://www.springpod.com
Once logged in, click on your name in the top right-hand corner, select settings and then ‘delete account’.
Ready to find out if this career is right for you?
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