Research Assistant

Hours: Full time of 1.0 FTE/ 36.5 hours per week.  
Contract Type: Fixed term until 30/09/2027

Expected start date: 01/10/2026

About the role

As a Research Assistant, you will play a key role in supporting an active research programme investigating how chromatin regulates genome integrity and DNA repair fidelity after genome editing. Working as part of a collaborative laboratory, you will contribute to a dedicated research project while also developing and maintaining shared research tools, reagents, and engineered cell lines that underpin multiple projects across the group.

You will perform a range of molecular and cell biology techniques, generate high-quality experimental data, and help maintain the smooth day-to-day running of the laboratory through organisation, record keeping, and resource management. Working closely with colleagues, you will troubleshoot experiments, share technical expertise, and contribute to the development of new laboratory capabilities. 

This is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive and innovative research environment where your work will directly contribute to advancing our understanding of genome stability. You will have the opportunity to develop your technical skills, collaborate with experienced researchers, and contribute to scientific outputs, including protocols, reports, and presentations. 

About you

We are looking for a highly motivated, organised, and collaborative Research Assistant with a strong background in molecular and cell biology. You will ideally hold a degree in a relevant biological science discipline (or have equivalent research experience) and have hands-on experience with genome editing and molecular biology techniques.

The successful candidate will have practical experience using CRISPR/Cas9 and/or CRISPR/Cas12 genome editing systems, including guide RNA design using Benchling, DNA cloning, plasmid construction, mammalian cell transfection, and assessment of genome editing efficiency using TIDE analysis. Experience with Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, microscopy, and image analysis is also essential.

You will be able to manage your own workload while contributing effectively to shared laboratory resources and supporting colleagues across multiple research projects. Excellent organisational skills are essential, with experience maintaining accurate laboratory records, databases, and inventories. You will be a proactive problem solver with strong attention to detail, committed to producing high-quality research and maintaining laboratory standards, including health and safety compliance.

Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as you will work closely with researchers across the laboratory, contribute to scientific discussions, and assist with the preparation of protocols, reports, and presentations.

About our School

Please find further information regarding the School of Life Sciences on our website.

The School of Life Sciences is proud to hold a Silver Athena Swan Award. 

Why work here

Find out more about our reward and benefits package.

Find out about our equality, diversity and inclusion

Further Key Information

Please contact Professor Evi Soutoglou (E.Soutoglou@sussex.ac.uk) for informal enquiries.

For full details and how to apply, please click on the 'Apply' button above.

The University is committed to equality and valuing diversity, and applications are particularly welcomed from women and black and minority ethnic candidates, who are under-represented in academic posts in Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine and Mathematics (STEMM) at Sussex.

The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Closing date: 27 August 2026

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