Research Assistant / Research Associate

We are seeking an enthusiastic and skilled Research Associate to join the Nixon-Abell Laboratory at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research. Our work sits at the interface between cell biology and molecular neuroscience.  We employ integrated experimental approaches, combining cutting-edge microscopy, biochemistry, omics and iPSC-derived cell models to understand organelle interactions and dynamics in neurons.

This Wellcome Trust funded project aims to draw fundamental links between organellar communication pathways and neuronal activity. Specifically, the post-holder will focus on understanding how sites of direct physical interaction between organelles (membrane contact sites) coordinate the intracellular distribution of ions/lipids/metabolites to facilitate neuronal transmission. The candidate will form part of a vibrant and interdisciplinary team focussed on producing rigorous, innovative and impactful research. This role will also offer various career development opportunities to support the candidate's professional progression.

All applicants must hold (or imminently be receiving) a PhD in a relevant field and have research experience in mechanistic cell biology and/or molecular neuroscience. Prior post-doctoral research experience is highly desirable. A background in membrane contact sites and/or neuronal cell biology would be advantageous and technical experience in one of more of the following would be highly beneficial: stem cell culture, neuronal differentiation, lipidomics/metabolomics/proteomics, CRISPR genome editing, advanced microscopy and bioinformatics. Previous experience working with lipids and/or Ca2+ biology is preferable, although not required.

The successful applicant will be expected to work independently and collaboratively as part of a diverse team.

This full-time fixed-term post is funded by the Wellcome Trust for 3 years in the first instance. This position is graded on the University's salary range for Grade 5 which is £29,605 - £33,966 or Grade 7 (upon award of PhD) £36,024 - £44,263 per annum. The starting salary offered will be based on qualification and relevant skills acquired and will be determined by the funding available. 

For informal enquiries please contact Dr Jonathon Nixon-Abell (jjn36@cam.ac.uk).

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

Closing date: 2 April 2024

Interview date: Mid April 20024

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.

Please quote reference SD40768 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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