Research Assistant – Whole Genome Duplication in prostate cancer

About the role

We are seeking an enthusiastic Research Assistant to join the Rao and Mills groups, applying novel multi-omics, cell and molecular biology, and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to study high risk prostate cancer. Our ultimate goal is to improve prostate cancer diagnosis and prognosis by identifying features of aggressiveness early.

Reporting to Dr. Srinivasa Rao, and Prof. Ian Mills, the post-holder will be a member of the Rao and Mills research groups with responsibility for the provision of research support for all aspects of the projects involving cell and molecular assays to study whole genome duplication in prostate cancer. Working in an administrative and technical capacity, the post-holder will also be expected to provide general administrative support to the Principal Investigators as required.

The post-holder will be responsible for carrying out a variety of cellular assays including culture of prostate cell lines, drug treatments, quantifying viability, cell cycle and other cellular parameters using high content microscopy. Molecular assays will include karyotyping, single cell genomic and transcriptomic assays, qPCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence. The postholder will also need to perform histological techniques on non-diagnostic samples, including tissue processing, embedding, slide staining, scanning and sectioning of paraffin embedded tissue and cryotomy, on diagnostic archive and research samples, and maintaining competency according to local procedures. The post-holder will have the skills to determine the most appropriate methodologies to test hypotheses and identify suitable alternatives if technical problems arise and have the abilities to select, follow, and adapt molecular biology protocols. The post-holder will be responsible for general laboratory management and administration, including stock control of laboratory consumables, and they may be required to represent the research group at external meetings/seminars, either with other members of the group or alone. The post holder will also provide advice and guidance to research students where appropriate.

About you

The successful candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences or a related field, together with some laboratory experience. They will possess sufficient knowledge in the fields of molecular biology and/or histopathology with the ability to manage own research and administrative activities. Excellent IT skills including the ability to maintain an electronic lab notebook and take meticulous notes are essential. Additionally, they will have excellent communication skills, including the ability to write text that can be published, present data at conferences, and represent the research group at meetings.

This full-time post is available immediately and is fixed-term 18 months in the first instance. It is based at the Botnar Research Centre (with some travel to other local sites in Headington).

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a supporting statement, setting out how you meet the selection criteria, curriculum vitae and the names and contact details of two referees as part of your online application. Please quote reference NDSA988 on all correspondence. 

Only applications received before noon Monday 6^th July 2026 can be considered.

Interviews will be held in the morning of Wednesday 15^th July 2026.

Committed to equality and valuing diversity

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

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