Research Associate (Fixed Term)

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Post-doctoral Research Associate to join Professor Murray Clarke's group in the stunning new Heart and Lung Research Institute, within the Department of Medicine at the University of Cambridge. The post is funded by a British Heart Foundation Project Grant for up to 3 years. The Clarke Laboratory Department of Medicine Medicine investigates novel mechanisms that regulate inflammation and the immune system, particularly within the vasculature.

Our research investigates the cause of vascular inflammation, and how this affects cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and aneurysm. Our group has a strong interest in the apical inflammatory cytokine IL-1, and we have identified new mechanisms that control its activation and signalling. This project focuses on how macrophage subtypes drive inflammation and how autocrine signals control this in both a positive and negative way. Almost all diseases are initiated and/or worsened by aberrant macrophage function, with IL-1-driven inflammation a common effector.

Examples of research include: Pyrillou, JCI Insight, 2024, 9(5):e174005; Burzynski, Cardiovascular Research, 2023, 119(12):2179-89; Burzynski, Immunity. 2019; 50, 1033¿42; Zhang, Immunity. 2013; 38:285-95.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in a relevant biological subject, together with experience in molecular biology, cell biology and immunology. Familiarity with flow cytometry, vascular biology and in vivo work would be desirable. Excellent organisational skills and the ability to work as part of a team, as well as independently, are also essential.

Candidates in the process of submitting their PhD thesis or awaiting degree conferral will be considered. In this case, appointment would be at the level of Research Assistant, Grade 5. On receipt of PhD award, the appointee would move to Grade 7, Research Associate.

Informal enquiries directed to Murray (mchc2@cam.ac.uk) are encouraged.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.

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

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 closing date for applications is: 9th February 2025

The interview date for the role is: To be confirmed

Please quote reference RC44718 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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