Investigator Scientist - PNAC - Dr Leo James - LMB 2748

Fixed Term to 17 June 2035

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK 

This is fixed-term position to 17 June 2035 due to time-limited funding from an external grant.

An Investigator Scientist position is available in the James lab at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB). We use multi-disciplinary approaches to address fundamental questions in infection, immunity and neurodegeneration. You will join a highly integrated and motivated team investigating pathogenicity in infection and neurodegenerative and new therapeutic strategies for their treatment. Specifically, the role is a senior staff scientist with responsibility for overseeing all research projects involving in vivo work using mouse models. The position is based at LMB and does not involve running live animal experiments, which take place in a separate facility. 

The post-holder is responsible for designing and planning experiments and performing post-experiment analysis using a wide-variety of techniques including flow cytometry, ELISpot, cell assays, qPCR and infection models. The role involves pursuing individual research projects and supporting other projects in the group. Consequently, good communications skills and the ability to work both independently and within a team are required. Informal enquires are encouraged as this is a unique role where skill set and aptitude are of principle importance and more details can be provided upon request. 

As the successful candidate you will have a PhD in a relevant subject and significant research experience at postdoctoral level in mammalian cell biology. Ideally, you will have prior experience working with mice or alongside in vivo experiments handling diverse tissues. Experience in pathogenic models is also useful, particularly in the fields of infection and neurodegeneration. Technical expertise in areas such as tissue culture, flow cytometry, microscopy, ELISpot, ELISA and qPCR is also highly relevant for the role. Knowledge of infection and/or neurodegeneration models both in vitro and in vivo would also be an asset. 

The LMB has a collaborative working culture and state-of-the-art building based on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. We have on-site parking, cycle enclosures and excellent public transport links to the site. We have a staff restaurant with roof terrace and access to a Campus nursery and sports and social facilities. You will be eligible to join our defined benefit pension scheme, a holiday entitlement of 40.5 days (including bank holidays and privilege days) and a generous employee discount scheme. We are also committed to providing training and development opportunities including support towards role-related qualifications. Further information about the benefits available can be found at http://www.discover.ukri.org/benefits-of-working-at-ukri. 

The LMB is a world-class research institute within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). UKRI is nine research councils, working together across all disciplines and sectors. More information can be found at www.ukri.org and https://mrclmb.ac.uk/. 

This is a rolling advertisement which can close or be extended, at any time, based on the number of applications received. Therefore, if you are interested, we encourage you to apply at your earliest convenience. Interviews will be held as and when applications are reviewed. 

To apply and access full details of the vacancy please visit our job board via the 'Apply' button above.

If you are unable to apply online please contact us at recruit@mrclmb.ac.uk. 

Closing date: 8 October 2026 

Final appointments will be subject to a pre-employment screening.

We actively support equality, diversity and inclusion in all our activities, processes and culture. We encourage applications from all sections of society. The LMB particularly welcomes minority ethnic and disabled candidates to apply for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented. We are a disability inclusive employer and encourage disabled people to apply for this role. You are very welcome to contact us for information about the application process and any adjustments you may require; recruit@mrclmb.ac.uk.