Research Associate in Developmental Biology (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the group of Dr Erik Clark at the Department of Genetics in central Cambridge. We are looking for a talented and enthusiastic individual to join a small interdisciplinary team investigating the robust patterning of the early Drosophila embryo. The role will involve developing and applying cutting-edge imaging approaches in Drosophila and Tribolium embryos, plus computational analysis of the resulting data.

Your primary responsibility will be to establish and optimise new techniques in the lab, including live imaging of gene expression in Drosophila embryos and multiplexed fixed imaging of gene expression in Tribolium embryos. Significant previous experience with Drosophila and Tribolium husbandry, advanced imaging, and image analysis is essential for the role. Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 would also be helpful.

The context of the project is the evolution of anteroposterior patterning networks across insects. A background in and enthusiasm for insect evolutionary developmental biology is highly desirable for the role.

The role will involve independently leading your own project while teaching and learning from other lab members and external collaborators. A friendly, collaborative attitude and good organisational and communication skills are essential.

Suitable applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant scientific discipline. They should be able to demonstrate a thorough working knowledge of relevant wet-lab, imaging, and computational techniques, and be confident in delivering training in these techniques to other lab members. They should also have experience in presenting research to different audiences, contributing to publications, and helping to lead group discussions.

The position is fixed term for a period of 18 months in the first instance and is available from 1st April 2025.

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

Informal enquiries about the role are welcome and should be directed to Dr Erik Clark ec491@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PC45080 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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