Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in malaria parasite biology, funded by a Wellcome Trust grant in the laboratory of Professor Catherine Merrick. The appointee will join an ongoing project investigating parasite epigenetics, staffed by 3 PDRAs and a technician.  Specifically, it will involve characterising a panel of P. falciparum conditional knockdown mutants using cutting-edge techniques in molecular genetics, biochemistry and cell biology.  Two years of productive research has already been conducted by the out-going role holder: publication(s) are confidently expected within the final year.

The project is supported by a technician and benefits from excellent facilities, including recently-refurbished Category-3 containment laboratories, and diverse expertise at the Cambridge Pathology Department, which hosts three collaborative malaria research groups.

Key Responsibilities

• Laboratory work in molecular genetics and cell biology in malaria parasites.
• Malaria parasite cell culture.
• Biochemical work e.g. western blotting.
• Immunofluorescence microscopy.
• Accurate, comprehensive record keeping.
• Preparation of research manuscripts, both text and figures.
• Presentation at local and international meetings.
• Efficient and productive collaboration with existing team of PDRAs.

Applicants should hold a PhD in parasitology, molecular biology or biochemistry.  Specific experience in any of the following techniques is highly desirable: Plasmodium culture, Plasmodium molecular genetics, protein biochemistry, parasite microscopy.

Further information can be found in the attached further particulars document.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance, with the possibility of extension upon funding of future grants.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment. Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

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

Any informal queries regarding this position should be directed to Professor Catherine Merrick : cjm48@cam.ac.uk

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

Please quote reference PK45186 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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