Research Associate (Fixed Term)

The laboratory of Professor Susan Ozanne (https://www.mrl.ims.cam.ac.uk/staff/professor-susan-ozanne) is seeking a postdoctoral research associate who has experience in isolation and characterisation of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from a range of sources as well as high content microscopy and cardio-metabolic phenotyping in rodent models. Our main research interest is in understanding how obesity and impaired glucose tolerance during pregnancy impacts on offspring cardio-metabolic health. We are particularly interested in how maternal obesity/GDM disrupts normal communication between the placenta and maternal vasculature via placental-derived EVs to contribute to impaired vascular physiology. The person appointed to this post will (i) characterize the miRNA and protein content of placenta EVs from obese vs. control pregnancies in both fetal sexes; and (ii) determine the biological impact of placental EVs on vascular biology in-vitro and in vivo. 

Key responsibilities 

Scientist with experience in profiling of microRNA and protein content of extracellular vesicles isolated from various sources. Applicants will have the following responsibilities: 

• Isolation and characterisation of EVs from mouse plasma or tissue explants using recommended MISEV2023 techniques
• Performing immunoassays, western blotting, RT-PCR and other techniques according to the direction of the project
• Sample preparation for small-RNA sequencing
• Bioinformatics analysis of small RNA sequencing data
• Preparing EVs for in-vitro labelling and uptake experiments
• High-content imaging of cellular morphology and immunochemistry following EV uptake, and data analysis using the Opera Phenix system.
• Present research work and data within the Institute, nationally and internationally and prepare and submit research for publication in peer-reviewed journals
• Assist in providing instruction to postgraduate students and other members of the research group in cardio-metabolic phenotyping techniques
• Assist the Principal Investigator in preparing manuscripts and applications to funding bodies

Other information

This position is based at the MRC Metabolic Disease Unit within the Institute of Metabolic Science (https://www.mrl.ims.cam.ac.uk/) which provides a highly collaborative and stimulating environment.

Proposed start date: 1st September 2025. Informal inquiries about this position should be directed to Prof Susan Ozanne at seo10@cam.ac.uk with reference number RG46806 in  the subject line.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 28th February 2026 in the first instance.

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To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on 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 £34,132) 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. 

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. 

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