Research Associate (Fixed Term)

The UK Hub for Predictive and AI-Enabled Human Disease Models is a UK national research initiative funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC), which aims to translate academic New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) into validated, industry-ready systems. The Hub brings together leading scientists, clinicians and commercial organisations to accelerate the development, validation and adoption of predictive human disease models for biomedical research, drug discovery and experimental medicine.

The successful candidate will join the research group led by Professor Matthias Zilbauer at the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute. The group specialises in human intestinal stem cell biology, organoid technology and the study of intestinal health and disease, with a particular focus on epithelial biology and epigenetic regulation.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Research Associate to contribute to the development, optimisation and validation of human intestinal organoid models.

The postholder will play a key role in expanding the human intestinal organoid biobank, contributing to the Hub's target of establishing an additional 2,000 organoid lines. They will develop and optimise organoid culture systems, support the introduction of automated culture workflows and undertake molecular and epigenetic profiling, including DNA methylation profiling, spatial transcriptomics and other multi-omics approaches.

The role will involve independent and collaborative research, including the development of functional assays and application of molecular and cellular techniques to characterise intestinal organoid models. You will work closely with researchers, clinicians and external partners to support the development of robust, reproducible and predictive human disease models.

You will have:

• A PhD in Stem Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology or a closely related discipline.
• Hands-on experience in establishing, maintaining, expanding and cryopreserving human intestinal organoid cultures.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques and molecular profiling approaches, including DNA methylation, transcriptomics or related multi-omics methods.
• Experience with CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing or related genetic manipulation techniques.
• Basic knowledge or experience of bioinformatic analysis.
• Strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to undertake independent research and work collaboratively.
• Experience with advanced imaging, flow cytometry, organoid-derived monolayers or automated cell culture workflows would be advantageous.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a major national research initiative, working at the interface of human stem cell biology, disease modelling and translational research. The position offers opportunities to develop new experimental approaches, work with academic and industry partners, and contribute to research with applications in biomedical science and drug discovery.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £34,132) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.

Advert information