Frequently Asked Questions

Q: From what scientific backgrounds do you wish to recruit these Fellows? 
A: From physics, chemistry, mathematics, statistics, engineering, computer sciences or similar. If you have a PhD in one of these disciplines and are motivated to follow a biomedical career, then apply: we are open-minded if you are.

Q: Can I apply if I have already worked at the computational/life sciences interface? 
A: Yes. Previous experience in computational life sciences is not a problem. Skills and motivation are most important.

Q: Can I apply if I am not a UK citizen? 
A: Yes, applications from suitably qualified candidates from all around the world will be considered.

Q: Can I still apply, even after some years after my PhD? 
A: Yes. We will always consider individuals’ personal motivations and circumstances.

Q: Do you need applicants to have already pursued biomedical research? 
A: No. However, we will be looking specifically for scientists whose desire for this career change is well motivated and thought-through.

Q: Will successful applicants be trained in biomedical concepts and skills? 
A: Yes, from lab-based protocols, basic molecular/cellular concepts, and evolutionary principles, to next generation sequencing, electronic health records and high-throughput drug screening.

Q: How will Fellows be trained? 
A: In a person-centred manner according to skill or knowledge gaps, taking advantage of existing on-line and University courses, with one-to-one tutorials, seminars, and as part of a training cohort.

Q: Why are these Fellowships being offered now? 
A: Biology and medicine are awash with very large data sets needing to be transformed into knowledge and hypotheses. Importantly, statistics and informatics have progressed to a level where such data sets can be analysed at scale creating the potential for significant breakthroughs. Analysis of such data will require team science and individuals with rare skills, each spanning traditional disciplines: a) recasting and linking data into usable forms; b) translating the jargon, tenets and assumptions of one discipline into another; and, c) identifying the optimal analytical approach and experimental design with which to answer the most important biomedical questions. There is a yawning skills gap, which this Fellowship scheme seeks to begin to close.

Q: What type of project will Fellows eventually pursue? 
A: 

Q: What level of independence will Fellows eventually have? 
A: Eventually, Fellows are expected to take a leading role in their chosen project, taking advantage of the skills, interests and expertise of a cross-disciplinary research team.

Q: What financial support will Fellows receive during the programme? 
A: Fellows will receive postdoctoral-level salary linked to their skills-base and experience.

Q: What expectations are there for Fellows after the 4 years? 
A: Fellows are expected to successfully apply for independent Fellowships or positions following their 4 year XDF.