Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Plasmodium Cell Biology (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Research Associate to join the labs of Dr. Katerina Artavanis-Tsakonas and Dr Andrew Blagborough. We are searching for a highly motivated scientist to investigate ubiquitin biology and its role in the development of Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of malaria, with a view to identifying novel targets for antimalarial interventions.

The ubiquitin pathway is fundamental to all eukaryotes. Despite its evolutionary conservation, we have identified notable differences in how ubiquitin is attached and removed from target proteins in Plasmodium and the nature and specificity of the enzymes that mediate these events. A main focus of this project will be to explore the role of ubiquitin in parasite protein trafficking.

Candidates will have completed a PhD in biological sciences and have a track record of related research achievements. Knowledge of ubiquitin biology and/or Plasmodium cell biology are essential as is demonstrable experience in the following:

• Sample preparation and data analysis for mass spectrometry

• Experience with culturing/maintenance of Plasmodium falciparum

• Hands-on experience with Plasmodium genetic manipulation methods, particularly CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing and construct design

• An understanding of structural biology principles and techniques

• An understanding and/or practical experience in working with the ubiquitin-proteasome system

We are looking for individuals who are committed to fostering a positive and inclusive research environment. The candidate should also have good interpersonal and organizational skills, the ability to work with limited supervision and exercise initiative, the ability to prioritize his/her own work in response to deadlines, and experience in making effective presentations and writing scientific manuscripts.

The Department of Pathology is a very active research and teaching department in the School of Biological Sciences. We offer modern laboratory spaces, flow cytometry, imaging, histology, proteomics and sequencing facilities in the centre of Cambridge. We host an external seminar series as well as internal talks, journal clubs, and a Department annual symposium.

There are approximately 40 research groups spanning a wide array of disciplines, including infectious and genetic diseases, immunology and cancer biology. Additional information can be found here;  www.path.cam.ac.uk/research 

This is a fixed term post for 2 years from date of appointment. 

**Please upload:**

• Your CV.

• A covering letter setting out why you are applying and how you match the criteria for the post.

• Please provide the names of two academic referees, one of which should be your most recent supervisor, and their contact details, including email address.

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.

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

The selection panel will meet soon after the closing date in order to produce a short-list; references will then be solicited. Short-listed candidates will be invited to attend a formal interview which is expected to take place in person in November 2023.

We expect the position to be filled by 1st January 2024.

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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