Google DeepMind Fellowship in Genomics and AI
In early 2026, the Wellcome Sanger Institute, in partnership with Google DeepMind (GDM), launched a call for a ‘Google DeepMind Fellowship in Genomics and AI’ representing a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of artificial intelligence and large-scale genomics.
With generous third party funding from GDM, marking their first specific contribution to genomics research via their Academic Fellowship Programme, the GDM Fellow in Genomics and AI will:
- Apply their significant skills and expertise in AI/ML/Computer Science to deliver original research that tackles a ‘Grand Challenge’ in Genomics & AI
- Develop and deliver ambitious and original outreach activities that build capacity in Genomics and AI, translating their ideas into tangible programmes, partnerships, or training opportunities, particularly in collaboration with communities and scientists in LMICs
- Act as an ambassador and point of contact for emerging talent in Genomics and AI
The Fellowship Scheme closed to applications in June 2026 and the Google DeepMind Fellow in Genomics & AI is expected to be annouced in Winter 2026/2027.
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This Fellowship Scheme is closed but other AI/ML may be available!
One GDM-funded Fellowship was available, targetted at an exceptional Early Career Researcher (ECR) intent on pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence in biological science and dedicated to building capacity at the interface between Genomics and AI, particularly in collaboration with communities and scientists in low and middle income countries (LMICs).
The Fellowship is based at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, embedded within a globally recognised genomics research environment, and connected to expertise in advanced AI through co-supervision from an AI expert at a UK university.
The aim is simple but ambitious: To develop novel AI approaches that unlock new insight from large-scale genomic data
With generous third party funding from GDM, the Fellowship package includes:
- 3 years’ Salary and a Research Fund to deliver original research that tackles a pre-defined ‘Grand Challenge’ in Genomics & AI
- A dedicated Outreach Fund to support impact beyond the Fellow’s core research. Both Sanger and GDM are committed to expanding participation in Genomics and AI research. Sanger advances this mission through initiatives including the International Fellows Programme, MPhil in Genomics Science and the Sanger Prize, while GDM has provided scholarship and fellowship funding to organisations since 2017 to them help bring a wide range of experiences into AI and computer science. Reflecting this shared commitment, Fellows will be expected to present a compelling outreach vision. They will lead and deliver ambitious and original activities that build capacity in Genomics and AI, translating their ideas into tangible programmes, partnerships, or training opportunities with lasting impact, particularly in collaboration with communities and scientists in low and middle income countries (LMICs).
- A Travel Fund, which will not only enable the Fellow to disseminate research, build networks and raise their profile at conferences and workshops, but will also enable them to serve as an ambassador and point of contact for emerging Genomics & AI talent.
- Opportunities to receive mentoring from senior Google DeepMind researchers
- One time fixed Relocation allowance to support the Fellow in taking up their post
Why bring your AI skills to genomics?
We are building an environment where AI is not just supporting science – it is the science. With one of the world’s largest sources of biological data, high-throughput experimental platforms, and a new institute-wide AI strategy, Sanger offers AI researchers the opportunity to apply advanced methods to some of biology’s hardest and most meaningful ‘Grand Challenges’.
From modelling cellular behaviour and disease progression to genome assembly, spatial biology, and foundation models for global research, Sanger provides real-world scientific challenges where AI can uncover entirely new biological insights, not just optimise existing systems.
The Institute is investing in AI talent, scalable infrastructure, open and trustworthy models, and responsible AI practices, creating a collaborative setting where machine learning researchers can work alongside experimental scientists and see their algorithms directly shape discovery.
For AI researchers looking to move beyond benchmarks and into high-impact science, genomics at Sanger Institute offers a rare combination: massive datasets, ambitious scientific questions, and a mission to democratise AI-driven biological insight for the world.
Why join the Wellcome Sanger Institute?
In addition to the Fellowship package, as an employee of the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the Fellow will gain access to the following benefits:
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- The training , careers and networking activities, and support, provided via Sanger’s Postdoc Programme
- Technical training and professional development opportunities provided through Sanger’s core Learning & Engagement programme
- Family-friendly support including an ‘Access Grant’ to cover additional caring costs incurred as a result of attending training opportunities of conferences
- A global mobility and immigration service to ensure that you are supported throughout your time with us.
- Benefits associated with being an employee of the Wellcome Sanger Institute. Our employee wellbeing strategy and programme underwrites the importance of good health and adopting a healthier lifestyle and out commitment to reducing work-related stress is strongly acknowledged and recognised at Sanger.
- A thriving, and expanding, Campus community on the Wellcome Genome Campus
The Wellcome Sanger Institute is a world-leading genomics research centre. Our science is collaborative, data-driven, and globally impactful.
Questions?
Questions?
Email the Academic Programmes team on: academicprogrammes [at] sanger [dot] ac [dot] uk
