Research Assistant - Maori Group (Fixed Term)

The Maori Lab, based in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Cambridge, is inviting applications for a Research Assistant to join our research programme investigating RNA transmission between the gut microbiome and its honeybee host.

The project focuses on an emerging paradigm in RNA biology: the transfer of RNA between organisms and its capacity to regulate gene expression across biological boundaries. Our recent work investigates how RNA derived from the honeybee gut microbiota can be transmitted systemically within the host and contribute to host-gene silencing.

The successful candidate will help complete the remaining experiments, analyses and selected writing required for a manuscript planned for submission in late 2026. The role holder will also contribute to any additional experimental or analytical work required during manuscript revision.

We are seeking a highly motivated scientist with the specific skills, experience and project knowledge needed to contribute immediately and deliver the remaining objectives within a short time frame.

The successful candidate will use molecular-biology, genomics, small-RNA analysis, microbiome-engineering and honeybee-bioassay approaches to study host-microbiome RNA communication. They will be expected to contribute to experimental planning, data generation, bioinformatic analysis, interpretation of results and manuscript preparation.

Candidates will have an MPhil or equivalent experience in molecular biology or a related discipline. Experience in RNA biology, small-RNA analysis, genomics, bioinformatics, microbiome engineering, honeybee biology or host-microbiome interactions would be highly desirable.

The ideal candidate will be a dedicated, self-driven and collaborative scientist who can work effectively within a small research team, communicate clearly and take ownership of defined project objectives.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until from 1st July 2026 until 14th April 2027, in the first instance.

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

For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Eyal Maori (https://www.bioc.cam.ac.uk/research/maori) via em514@cam.ac.uk

For queries regarding the application process, please contact the Biochemistry HR Team via: personnel@bioc.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PH50132 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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