Research Associate

The Aiken laboratory seeks a post-doctoral research associate to join a team working on an exciting new MRC-funded project. We aim to use cutting-edge in vitro techniques, including placental organoids, to evaluate the impact of metformin on the placenta early in pregnancy. Evidence suggests that metformin could be an effective preventative treatment for both miscarriage and pre-eclampsia. These conditions are urgent clinical priorities; they are frequent, severe, and have very few current effective therapeutic options. The project has been funded on the basis of a high chance of significant clinical impact.

Scientists are encouraged to apply if they have substantial practical experience of laboratory-based research involving the placenta. Applicants should have a background in tissue culture and familiarity with a variety of common laboratory techniques. The role holder will be responsible for running their own research projects and will collaborate with PhD students, technicians and other post docs.

*Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD (or equivalent experience), including those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD. Where a PhD has yet to be awarded, appointment will initially be made at research assistant and amended to research associate when the PhD is awarded (PhD needs to be awarded within 6 months of the start date).

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to:

Dr Catherine Aiken

Email: cema2@medschl.cam.ac.uk

The closing date for applications is 12 April 2024.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment. This appointment also requires a Research Passport application.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please visit :

http://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/45814

Applicants must have (or be close to obtaining) a PhD. 

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £31,411) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.

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.

Please quote reference RI41021 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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