Assistant Research Professor

CamWebDir; Cambridge; Remote; GBP 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Cambridge invites applications for an Assistant Research Professor to work at the Bonfio Laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry. The role focuses on primitive cell biophysics, membranes, and origins of life, starting from early November 2026, with a fixed 6‑month term and potential for extension based on funding.

The successful candidate will lead an independent project, collaborate across projects, supervise students, and support lab management.

Qualifications

• Essential membrane biophysics experience with spectroscopy or microscopy
• Ability to supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Willingness to contribute to lab management and general duties

Responsibilities

• Conduct an independent research project in membrane biophysics
• Assist with ongoing projects in the Bonfio Laboratory
• Supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Contribute to lab management and daily lab duties

Skills

Membrane biophysics

Spectroscopy

Confocal microscopy

Teamwork

Education

PhD in Biophysics or related field

Tools

Confocal microscopy

Spectroscopy

Job description

# Assistant Research ProfessorUUniversity of CambridgeCB2 1TNvia University of CambridgePosted 30 Sep 2026Apply on cam.ac.uk →We are seeking to recruit an Assistant Research Professor to work at the interface of membrane biophysics and origin-of-life research at the Bonfio Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, UK.This project will push the boundaries of primitive cell biophysics, exploring pathways through which primitive membranes could have acquired key life-like behaviours on early Earth.Research in the Bonfio Laboratory focuses on the chemical origins and properties of early lipid membranes and compartments - see: https://www.bioc.cam.ac.uk/research/faculty/claudia-bonfioThe position would suit an ambitious, talented and experienced membrane biophysicist who has previously worked with biophysical methods (spectroscopy and microscopy) for the characterisation of fatty-acid and phospholipid membranes.Key responsibilities include: conducting an independent research project; assisting with ongoing projects in the lab; supervising undergraduate and postgraduate students; and contributing to lab management and general lab duties.The ideal candidate will have a strong aptitude for scientific (membrane biophysics) research, a desire to learn and perfect new techniques, excellent communication and teamwork skills. Previous experience in membrane biophysics is essential, ideally with knowledge of, and independent work on, confocal microscopy techniques and spectroscopic characterisation methods.Applicants should submit a CV citing relevant experience, a cover letter explaining why they are suitable for the position and contact information for at least two referees.The successful candidate would be expected to start at the beginning of November 2026. This is a full time position for 6 months in the first instance due to limited funding.Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 6 months in the first instance.Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.Informal discussions are welcome; please contact Dr Claudia Bonfio via email: [e-mail] any further assistance with the application process, please contact the Biochemistry HR team via email: [e-mail] quote reference PH51253 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.