MIA Bioinformatician Jayden Beckwith has generously answered our questions on his impactful research, what he loves about his work, and his career goals. Plus, we learn more about his life outside of work too – from his hidden talent and a quote he holds dear.
Can you summarise your latest research?
I work across several neoadjuvant projects at MIA, with a recent focus on exploring how RNA splicing changes during neoadjuvant immunotherapy in melanoma. My work involves analysing paired tumour samples collected before and after treatment to understand how molecular patterns differ between patients who respond well to therapy and those who do not. This research aims to shed light on the biological processes underlying treatment response, with the long-term goal of identifying biomarkers that could help predict outcomes and guide more personalised treatment strategies.
How did you get into melanoma research?
My background is in bioinformatics and clinical research, with experience across genomics, software engineering, and large-scale data analysis. While working in bioinformatics roles, I developed a strong interest in applying computational approaches to problems with direct clinical impact. When the opportunity arose to join MIA, I was drawn to the combination of cutting-edge genomic research, rich multi-omic datasets, and the ability to collaborate closely with clinicians and scientists who are directly improving patient outcomes.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
I’ve worked across clinical research and bioinformatics, from managing trial data to building genomic analysis pipelines. Earlier in my career, I developed analytical tools for ALS and other neurodegenerative disease research, integrating genomic and clinical datasets to identify potential disease triggers. A key highlight now is my role at MIA on the neoadjuvant platform, where I help uncover molecular patterns that could predict how patients respond to immunotherapy. It’s been rewarding to apply my skills and experience across such diverse diseases, all with the goal of improving patient outcomes.
What is your favourite part of your work?
The ability to apply computational techniques to solve complex biological problems.
Do you have any future career goals?
To continue leading impactful bioinformatics projects and expand my role in shaping research strategy, with the ultimate aim of developing new tools and approaches that directly influence patient care and treatment decisions.
Do you have a nickname?
Jay.
Do you have a hidden talent?
I can put together IKEA furniture without using the manual.
What is your favourite quote?
“The opposite of a fact is falsehood, but the opposite of one profound truth may very well be another profound truth.” – Niels Bohr.
What is your all-time favourite movie?
Catch me if you can.
What is a book you’ve enjoyed recently?
Astrophysics for People in a Hurry – Neil deGrasse Tyson.
