Research Assistant/Associate (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate position in the laboratory of Dr Taufiq Rahman (https://www.phar.cam.ac.uk/research/rahman) at the Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge.

The project is an international collaborative one and multidisciplinary aiming to investigate the molecular mechanism(s) of few approved drugs that manifest potent antihypertensive effect through reducing arterial smooth muscle contractility and thus can be potentially repurposed for hypertension. We have already identified a target protein for these drugs. Therefore, the main aim for the project is to biophysically (through SPR/ITC), computationally (through MD simulation) and structurally (through solving crystal structure of the protein with drug bound) characterise the ligand-protein interaction.

The candidate should have proven experience in the design and execution of workflow for structure determination of proteins, from molecular biology/biochemical experiments (e.g. DNA cloning and mutagenesis, protein purification) through to structural data collection, processing and model building is essential. Some experience in biophysical assays such as SPR/ITC is highly desirable. Experience in running MD simulation will clearly be an added advantage but not essential. The ability to work both independently and as part of a team, coupled with excellent communication, organizational and problem-solving skills are required. Other duties/responsibilities include developing/driving research objectives, writing up work for presentation/publication purposes, and assisting in supervising undergraduate/postgraduate student research projects.

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain shortly, a PhD in structural biology Biophysics, Biochemistry or any related discipline. Successful candidates who have not been awarded their PhD by the appointment date will be appointed as a Research Assistant at Grade 5 (£32,546 - £35,116). Upon the award of the PhD the individual will be promoted to Research Associate, Grade 7 (£37,174 - £45,413).

Fixed-term:

The funds for this post are available from 15th June 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter, for 12 months in the first instance with the possibility of renewal for 3 more subsequent years.

The Department holds an Athena SWAN bronze award, demonstrating a commitment to provide equal opportunities and particularly welcomes application from women, black and minority ethnic candidates. Appointment will be based on merit alone.

The online application is to include your personal details, names and addresses of referees, as well as your CV, research publications list and cover letter outlining your interest in the project.

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

Informal enquiries about the position can be made to:

Dr Taufiq Rahman (mtur2@cam.ac.uk)

For enquiries about the online application process, please contact the HR Team: 

hr@phar.cam.ac.uk 

Please quote reference PL45787 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.

Advert information