Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

The laboratory of Prof. David Savage is seeking a research assistant to join an interdisciplinary team researching the links between obesity/ adipose tissue dysfunction and metabolic disease. The group has longstanding interests in rare human inherited disorders of adipose tissue, widely known as lipodystrophies. Remarkably, these diseases are strongly associated with almost identical metabolic disorders as those associated with obesity. Our lab studies humans, as well as using a range of model organisms and cell-based approaches to advance understanding of the mechanistic basis for these associations. The position is funded by the Wellcome Trust and will enable the successful applicant to join an international network using innovative approaches to tackle major challenges in human health.

In this position, you will: - keep detailed and accurate records - play a leading role in laboratory management duties such as ordering, stock checks and organising lab inventories. - work alongside and in support of postdoctoral fellows and/or PhD students in the group as well as having opportunities to work on your own projects - work on studies using cultured cells as well as assisting with the handling/processing of human and animal samples/ tissues - the work is likely to involve a range of state-of-the-art molecular biology, microscopy, histological techniques

To be considered for this position, you must 1)  possess a university degree or higher in biology or a related field, 2)  be reliable, willing to work flexibly, be proactive, self-motivated and have excellent organisational skills, and 3)  possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. The ideal applicant would have experience in working in obesity, diabetes or related metabolic disease states;  though this is not essential if you have relevant technical expertise.

You would work in a world-leading institution in an intellectually stimulating environment that would expose you to cutting-edge approaches. Our laboratory is highly collaborative, and you would be working closely with others to execute their ambitious research projects. However, there may be opportunities for you to carry out independent work if you so desire. This is a highly regarded position in its own right but also can provide an ideal opportunity for you to advance your career ¿ several former RAs in the group have gone on to undertake PhDs, whilst others have moved onto positions in industry.

Proposed start date: 15 April 2023, though there is some flexibility. Informal inquiries about this position should be directed to David Savage at dbs23@cam.ac.uk with reference number RG35226 in the subject line.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and 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.

Closing date: 1st March 2023

Date of interview: To be confirmed

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