Research Associate - Cell Biology/Neuroscience

Applications are invited for an enthusiastic and committed post-doctoral scientist to join a vibrant team investigating the cell biology of a group of neurological conditions called hereditary spastic paraplegias.  This project is based in the group of Professor Evan Reid at Cambridge Institute for Medical Research and is funded for 3 years. It would be particularly appealing for a cell biologist who is interested in understanding the causes of genetic disease.

The project aims to understand the functions of hereditary spastic paraplegia proteins in the molecular pathogenesis of axonal degeneration.  The work will be at the interface between cell biology (especially membrane traffic) and molecular neuroscience, and will begin with functional genomic synthetic lethality screens using human iPSC-derived neuronal models of HSP, before going on to characterize the cell biology of "hits" from the screen. 

The lab employs an integrated approach that combines state of the art cell biology, biochemistry, proteomics, functional genomics and stem cell-derived neuronal modeling. We aim to produce high quality research that impacts our field and stands the test of time. Cambridge Institute for Medical Research is a centre of excellence that has a strong focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms of disease, with the aim of translating basic discoveries to clinically meaningful therapies. It is known for its positive research culture.

Candidates must have experience in molecular cell biology, and will by the time of appointment have a PhD in a relevant biological, biochemical or biomedical science, with additional post-doctoral experience being highly desirable. They will have either published or have in preparation at least one first author primary peer-reviewed research article that will make an impact in their field. A background in functional genomic screening and/or membrane traffic would be highly advantageous and experience in one or more of the following desirable; CRISPR-Cas genome editing, stem cell culture and neuronal differentiation, fixed or live cell immunofluorescence microscopy (especially super-resolution), lentiviral delivery of RNA or DNA to cultured cells.

Applicants will be expected to work closely within a highly interactive group, to have a friendly and collegiate outlook, to have good written and verbal communications skills, to be well-organised and have the ability to work calmly to meet deadlines. They may be expected to supervise the practical work of a PhD student.  The work of this post will be supported by a graduate Research Assistant and the post-holder will help manage and supervise this Research Assistant.

Previous applicants need not apply.

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. 

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Professor Evan Reid, email ealr4@cam.ac.uk

If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Charlotte Yelton, HR Supervisor, on caay2@cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference SE34230 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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