Postdoctoral Research Associate (Fixed Term)

We are seeking an enthusiastic and independent Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our growing research in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology at the University of Cambridge.

This position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at elucidating the molecular mechanisms underpinning genome assembly, viral replication, and evolution in RNA viruses with segmented genomes, with the ultimate goal of informing the development of antiviral strategies.

The successful candidate will participate in an exciting project funded by a Wellcome Discovery Award, which explores the roles of RNA structure, dynamics, and biomolecular condensates in viral life cycles. Our work seeks to revolutionise the understanding of how multi-segmented RNA viruses, such as RVs, selectively package their distinct RNA segments, form phase-separated replication factories, and evolve through reassortment.

The successful candidate will participate in an exciting project funded by a Wellcome Discovery Award, which explores the roles of RNA structure, dynamics, and biomolecular condensates in viral life cycles. Our work seeks to revolutionise the understanding of how multi-segmented RNA viruses, such as rotaviruses, selectively package their distinct RNA segments, form phase-separated replication factories, and evolve through reassortment.

Key Responsibilities will include:

• Using advanced microscopy techniques, including fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) and Raster Image Correlation Spectroscopy (RICS), to study the dynamics of viral condensates.
• Applying RNA-focused methods such as smFISH, RNA sequencing, and proximity-labelling techniques to analyse viroplasmic transcriptomes.
• Developing and utilizing reverse genetics system for rescuing viruses to generate recombinant rotaviruses, and explore the functional consequences of mutations in key viral proteins that drive phase separation.
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to integrate experimental data with computational approaches, including machine-learning tools, to investigate evolutionary conservation and phase separation phenomena.
• Contribute to various research group activities, writing manuscripts, presenting at group meetings, national and international conferences.

The PDRA is expected to carry out independent research on a day-to-day basis and develop new approaches under the guidance of an academic supervisor. In addition, cooperation with other lab members and assistance with the training of students within the research group is required. Team work and clear communication are essential. 

More information on the role is available on the Further Particulars attached. 

Fixed-term: the funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click 'Apply' above.

Informal enquiries may be made to Dr Alex Borodavka at ab2677@cam.ac.uk.

If you have questions on the application process, please email Mrs Alessandra Uomo, HR Administrator, at hr@ceb.cam.ac.uk.

Closing date for applications is 19th January 2025. 

Interviews are likely to be held soon after the closing date.

Please quote reference NQ44601 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.

Advert information