Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Could incretin receptor agonists - drugs already transforming the treatment of obesity and diabetes - hold the key to repairing the brain in progressive multiple sclerosis?

This question is at the heart of a new collaborative research programme at the University of Cambridge. This post will be based across the laboratories of Professor Clémence Blouet (Institute of Metabolic Science) and Professor Ragnhildur Thóra Káradóttir (Cambridge Stem Cell Institute; Director of the MS Society Cambridge Centre for Myelin Repair), University of Cambridge.

We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to work on a collaborative research programme funded by Eli Lilly, investigating whether incretin receptor agonists, a class of drugs already transforming the treatment of obesity and diabetes, can promote remyelination and support brain repair in progressive multiple sclerosis.

The successful candidate will work across both laboratories. The project will involve focal demyelinating lesion models, stereotaxic surgery and pharmacological interventions, in vivo recordings of neuronal activity, quantitative histology and imaging, and mechanistic profiling including single-nucleus transcriptomics.

This is a unique opportunity to work at the interface of metabolic science and neuroscience in a highly collaborative and translational environment, with access to state-of-the-art facilities across the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, the Institute of Metabolic Science, and the wider Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The project offers strong opportunities for training in multidisciplinary approaches, as well as interaction with an industry partner.

Requirements:

Applicants should hold a PhD (or close to completion) in neuroscience or a related discipline. A strong background in in vivo rodent work, including stereotaxic surgery, is essential. Experience with histology, imaging, or electrophysiological techniques, particularly in vivo, would be advantageous. The successful candidate must be highly organised, able to work both independently and collaboratively, and have strong analytical and communication skills.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Candidates who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level (Grade 5), with reclassification to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon award.

Start date is flexible.

The interview date for the role is: 10-12th June 2026

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check), health assessment and security check.

Informal enquiries are welcome via email to Professor Clémence Blouet (cb725@medschl.cam.ac.uk) or Professor Ragnhildur Thóra Káradóttir (rk385@cam.ac.uk).

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