Postdoctoral Research Associate (Fixed Term)

The Rayner and Deane Laboratories at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research are recruiting a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on a project that explores the function of a multi-gene family that is expanded in the genomes of Plasmodium Vivax and other related neglected human malaria parasites. The project builds on a recent publication that established that these tryptophan-rich antigens (TRAgs) have lipid binding activity (PMID: 37709739). It will expand on these initial findings using CRISPR/Cas9 genetic modification to knockout and tag multiple TRAg genes in Plasmodium Knowlesi and explore their function using a range of cell biological and biochemical assays.

To hit the ground running the successful candidate will need hands-on and demonstrable experience in culturing and transfecting Plasmodium parasites, preferably specifically Plasmodium Knowlesi. You will also have extensive experience in using molecular biology techniques (e.g. Gibson Assembly) to generate and validate complex genetic manipulation vectors, as well as in relevant cell biology techniques such as advanced microscopy and flow cytometry. There is also the potential to be involved in more biochemical focussed work, including recombinant protein expression and crystallography, if that is of interest. Your primary focus will be on carrying out outstanding academic research leading to impactful papers, providing substantial scope for innovation, creativity and scientific judgement. You will work as part of a vibrant interdisciplinary team and in close collaboration with colleagues in both the Rayner and Deane Laboratories in the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research. You are expected to contribute to the collaborative team environment, supporting and training others where needed, and you will present your work regularly at both internal and external academic events. The role has the potential to be a key stepping stone in a research career and multiple career development and support opportunities are available.

The Cambridge Institute for Medical Research (CIMR) is located on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus and it is a collaborative institute at the interface between fundamental research and the clinic, with a mission to determine the molecular mechanisms of disease in order to advance human health.

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.

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

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.

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