Research Assistant (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 6 months in the first instance.

The Transmissible Cancer Group at the University of Cambridge, Department of Veterinary Medicine, is seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to join a dynamic team studying the immunogenetics of transmissible cancers. This is a fixed-term 6-month position supported by a research grant. This post is expected to start on 1st September 2026 but there is some flexibility for an earlier start date.

Transmissible cancers are long-lived clonal lineages of malignant cells that operate as infectious parasites, spreading between individuals by the physical transfer of living cancer cells. Among mammals, such diseases have been described in only two species: dogs and Tasmanian devils, and are spread by mating and biting, respectively.

This position is suited for someone with skills in computational biology and clinical training, and with an interest in comparative cancer evolution and tumour immunology. The role-holder will perform analysis of genome and transcriptome data from tumours belonging to transmissible cancer lineages. The role-holder will analyse MHC and other immune gene genotypes.

Applicants should hold a Master's degree in evolutionary biology and a medical or veterinary qualification, and should have experience in MHC gene annotation and interpretation in the context of transmissible cancer. They should have knowledge of immunotherapies and how these are used to treat cancer. The candidate must value teamwork and collaboration, have good organisational and interpersonal skills, and should be able to effectively manage their time. They will have the opportunity to make their own original contribution to the field of study within the framework of the project.

More information about the Transmissible Cancer Group can be found on our website at www.tcg.vet.cam.ac.uk.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof Elizabeth Murchison (epm27@cam.ac.uk), and enquiries about the application process should be directed to Julie Ingham (ji217@cam.ac.uk). Further particulars for the role and information about the Department www.vet.cam.ac.uk

Applicants should submit a CHRIS/6, CV, covering letter outlining suitability for the role and contact details for two referees.

Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. Any additional documents, which have not been requested, will not be considered as part of your application.

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

Enquiries about the application process can be directed to hr.enquiries@vet.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference PP50309 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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