Research Associate

Applications are invited to recruit an enthusiastic post-doctoral scientist to work on a project in the group of Prof Ravi Gupta. We employ an integrated approach, using biochemistry, cell biology, and use of viruses as tools to probe cellular pathways involved in macrophage cell cycle regulation.

Macrophages are key players in innate and adaptive immunity as well as tissue homeostasis. We discovered that these terminally differentiated cells can transition between cell cycle states without cell division. This is dependent on the canonical proliferation cascade involving MEK/ERK and leads to deactivation of the retroviral restriction factor SAMHD1. We have exciting new data to show that certain physiological triggers such as low oxygen can drive this cell cycle progression. Coupled with a recent finding that MEK inhibitors can block inflammation from ETS2 overexpression in IBD models of disease, this is now a hot area of research where we are very well placed given our longstanding interests.

The work will be pursued in the Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology and Infectious Disease (CITIID). This new building provides an exceptional and stimulating environment that promotes collaborative and interdisciplinary research, with state-of-the-art facilities, and is housed on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus alongside the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute.

Recent publications related to our approaches and this project include:

• Meng et al. (2024) Cell Reports
• Mlcochova et al. (2021) Cell Reports
• Mlcochova et al. (2018) EMBO Journal
• Mlcochova et al. (2017) EMBO Journal

Relevant research experience in primary cell culture, innate immunity and primary cell/ organoids is essential. Candidates should have (or be about to receive) a PhD in a relevant discipline and have a capacity to apply initiative and creativity to solve biological problems.

Applicants will be expected to work closely and interactively with colleagues in different disciplines within the lab, and have good communications skills.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD, or an equivalent research doctorate. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once PhD has been awarded.

Funds for this position are available for three years in the first instance.

Informal enquiries can be sent to Prof Ravi Gupta (rkg20@cam.ac.uk)

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please visit: www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/47299

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

The interview date for the role is: To be confirmed

Please quote reference RC42381 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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