Research Assistant/Research Associate - Twigger Group (Fixed Term)

The Cambridge Lactation Laboratory (https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cambridgelactationlab.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7Chejobs%40jobs.ac.uk%7C2c4abf831d944464c89808dd2bf74374%7C09bacfbd47ef446592653546f2eaf6bc%7C0%7C0%7C638715063201582984%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=V4P4XjOFzNaH09D7DUsXh8S0cfuXnKN7A2jE1oYaBQ0%3D&reserved=0) is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Research Assistant/Research Associate to support the Cambridgeshire Multiomics of Milk (CAMB MOM) study.

About the Role

Join a dynamic and growing research group in the Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, under the leadership of Dr. Alecia-Jane Twigger. The team is passionate about women's and infant health and specializes in both experimental (wet lab) and bioinformatic (dry lab) research. Within the group, we will provide you with further training in these disciplines. We also offer the opportunity to undertake 10 days per year of external training programmes to support your career development.

The CAMB MOM study conducts multiomics analyses (lipidomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics) on samples from a cohort of breastfeeding participants in Cambridgeshire. The insights gained from gene-gene interaction networks will be tested using in vitro mammary organoid models and integrated into computational models. By investigating the molecular pathways of human milk production, we aim to resolve breastfeeding challenges and promote optimal long-term health for mothers and infants.

Candidate Requirements

We seek a competent individual with excellent laboratory skills in molecular biology and cell culture. Preferred qualifications include:

• Previous clinical research experience
• Experience with molecular analysis (e.g. RNA extraction and purification, protein analysis, histology, multiplexed immunostaining, microscopy).
• Experience with multiomics analysis and a basic understanding of bioinformatics analysis (e.g., bulk or single-cell RNA-seq analysis).

The ideal candidate will demonstrate responsibility, initiative, independent thinking, and possess excellent communication and organizational skills. Line management experience and the ability to work effectively both individually and within a diverse team are highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

Supporting Study Sample Collections and Analysis

• Organize sample collections with research group members and study participants.
• Process and store samples for analysis.
• Coordinate with core facility staff for specialized analysis (e.g., scRNA-sequencing, lipidomics, proteomics).
• Perform analysis of 'omic data
• Collaborate with local and international partners to compare findings across cohorts.

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain meticulous records of experiments and develop new SOPs and protocols.
• Provide day-to-day supervision of undergraduate/postgraduate students where appropriate.

Qualifications

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in Biology, Biochemistry, Natural Sciences, or a related field.
• Practical research experience.

Why Join Us

Being part of the Cambridge Lactation Laboratory, you will have the opportunity to contribute your ideas to ongoing research. You will be able to engage with an opportunity-rich scientific and clinical research environment within the University of Cambridge and nearby Cambridge Biomedical Campus. You will also have the opportunity to expand your research network, engaging with the wider international research community. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that promotes intellectual curiosity and scientific excellence. We encourage applications from a diverse group of backgrounds and allow for flexible working hours.

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.

For an informal discussion, please contact Dr Alecia-Jane Twigger, email: ajt215@cam.ac.uk

For further assistance, please contact the Biochemistry HR team, email: personnel@bioc.cam.ac.uk

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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