Research Associate Mucosal Immunology (Fixed Term)

The human gastrointestinal tract houses a large number of microbes, collectively known as the microbiota, that supports host metabolism, immune development and pathogen resistance. The Pedicord Lab at the University of Cambridge Department of Medicine seeks to gain mechanistic insights into the influence of the microbiota on local and systemic immune responses. These insights will enable the development of new approaches to combat intestinal infections and inflammation and augment cancer immunotherapy.

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work with Dr Virginia Pedicord at the Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease (CITIID) in the Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre to explore the mechanisms by which commensal microbes affect disease susceptibility. This will involve using in vivo models, cellular immunology, transcriptomics and proteomics to characterise the complex interactions between the intestinal epithelium, immune cells and commensal microbial community. The ideal applicant will love scientific investigation, have a good work ethic and excellent organisation skills, be detail-oriented, persistent, and passionate about working as a team to build a successful research group. Applicants must have a PhD degree in Biological Science with a focus on Microbiology or Immunology, preferably with some experience in murine in vivo infection and/or inflammation models. Experience with proteomics, transcriptomics, advanced imaging and/or bioinformatics strongly preferred but not required. Applications should include a full CV and a cover letter that includes a brief statement outlining key areas of technical knowledge and reasons why you would like to join the group.

A full description of the role is available in the Further Particulars document, and Dr Pedicord can be contacted via vap33@cam.ac.uk for additional information regarding this role.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD, or an equivalent research doctorate. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once PhD has been awarded.

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 basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.

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

Please ensure that you upload a covering letter and a 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.

The closing date for applications is: 26th May 2024

The interview date for the role is: To be confirmed

Please quote reference RC41467 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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