Research Associate/Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

As part of a collaboration with the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate or Research Assistant (with an Undergraduate level degree as a minimum) to join the laboratory of Professor Elizabeth Soilleux on a newly funded, exciting CRUK-funded project, developing and validating a new diagnostic test for T-cell lymphoma. The test is likely to be adopted into clinical practice during the later stages of the 3-year project.

This 3-year role focuses on careful validation of tissue-based staining and provides an opportunity to interface with and understand clinical services and healthcare challenges. It provides opportunities to learn about tissue morphology, as well as gaining experience in automated and manual tissue handling and staining processes, primarily using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and high sensitivity in situ hybridisation. Corroborative approaches using cell culture and molecular techniques will also be important.

There will be opportunities to present data at conferences and to write both primary research and review papers. The successful applicant will be expected to provide singlehanded or collaborative supervision to undergraduate students and Masters students, within a supportive and collegial laboratory environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Cell culture
• Molecular biology (nucleic acid extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, Q-PCR).
• Collating and clinicopathologically annotating cohorts of patient biopsy samples, in collaboration with clinical colleagues, as needed.
• Automated (and occasionally) manual staining by immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridisation and immunofluorescence.
• Ensuring compliance of the laboratory with Human Tissue Act (England and Wales, 2004).
• Providing Human Tissue Act training and mentorship to other laboratory members, principally students.
• Liaising with industrial and academic collaborators, both nationally and internationally.
• Supervising or co-supervising student projects, as appropriate.

Essential Requirements:

• A Relevant Undergraduate Degree (Appointment at Research Assistant Level).
• Strong molecular biology skills, including nucleic acid extraction and PCR.
• A willingness to work with a broad range of academic, clinical and industrial collaborators.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Desirable:

• Experience in training or mentoring students or other laboratory members.
• A strong track record in writing manuscripts for publication.
• PhD (or equivalent experience) in spatial imaging, tissue-based research approaches (including immunohistochemistry/ in situ hybridisation) or molecular biology (Essential for appointment at Research Associate Level).
• A Masters Degree

Please read attached further particulars document for more information.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. 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 the PhD has been awarded. Those with equivalent experience to a PhD, but who have not undertaken or not yet completed a doctoral qualification will be eligible to be appointed at Research Assistant level.

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 health assessment.

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

Any informal queries regarding this position should be directed to Professor Elizabeth Soilleux : ejs17@cam.ac.uk

Queries regarding the application process should be directed to Miss Ellie Watson (HR Administrator): ew649@cam.ac.uk

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

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