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.

Key Responsibilities will include:

• Virological characterisation of novel recombinant rotaviruses generated via reverse genetics approaches. These will include classical virological methods (growth kinetics, virus isolation and purification, negative stain electron microscopy and light microscopy).
• Applying RNA-focused methods such as RNA sequencing, including RNA-Seq data analyses (Oxford nanopore and Illumina-based sequencing) pipelines.
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to integrate experimental data with computational approaches, including machine-learning tools, to investigate the impact of RNA structural and RNA genome changes on viral replication and genome stability.
• 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. Teamwork 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.

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

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Mr Vito Candela, HR Administrator, at hr@ceb.cam.ac.uk.

Applications closing dates 23rd of February 2025.

Please quote reference NQ44700 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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