We are looking for a bright and motivated Research Assistant to join our team at the CRUK Cambridge Institute (part of the University of Cambridge) to be a part of a highly collaborative project to study the progression and recurrence of breast cancer.
You will be part of a small team, led by Dr Akanksha Anand, studying breast cancer using patient tissue and patient-derived organoids. We aim to measure RNA and protein expressions using single-cell and spatial technologies, with increased throughput and resolution. Our ultimate goal is to develop predictors of treatment response, early relapse and survival with a broader aim to explore early signals of later metastatic recurrence. The endpoint would be to integrate outputs from different technologies into an interactive machine learning model.
Our team is based and embedded in Professor Greg Hannon's laboratory, a multi-disciplinary group of scientists working on diverse areas ranging from fundamental RNA biology to metastatic cancer research and the development of new technologies.
Who you are
We are looking to recruit an enthusiastic and competent individual with excellent laboratory skills in molecular biology and cell culture. A background in bioinformatics or relevant sequencing methods such as bulk or single-cell RNA-seq, is desirable. In particular, we encourage applications from candidates with previous experience with in-vitro technologies such as 3D organoids, co-cultures, multiplexed IHC, or similar.
Experience with tissue culture, RNA extraction and purification, histology, microscopy or bioinformatic analysis would be beneficial. The successful candidate should show initiative and independent thinking, possess excellent communication and organizational skills, and have the ability to work effectively both individually and as part of a diverse team, integrating their work with that of others.
As a member of our team and the Hannon laboratory, you will have the opportunity to contribute your own ideas to ongoing research activities. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive working environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and scientific excellence.
Applicants should have MSc degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (Biology, Biochemistry, Natural Sciences) as well as a reasonable amount of practical research experience.
Application process
To apply for this vacancy, please click on the 'Apply' button.
Please send applications in the following format: 1) a CV, including full details of all University courses taken to date, with grades (if available) and a publication record (if available); 2) the names and contact details of two academic referees; 3) a cover letter explaining why you wish to be considered for this role, how you match the criteria for the post, and listing your research experience to date (see Further Particulars).
The closing date for applications is Sunday 7th July 2024, with interviews expected to take place shortly after this date. The starting date is flexible, but ideally in August 2024.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a security check.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
