Graduate Research Assistant (with option to undertake a PhD)

University of Exeter; Exeter; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Exeter seeks a full-time Graduate Research Assistant to join the Yang laboratory. The role focuses on neural-endocrine crosstalk research using zebrafish models. Candidates should have a relevant degree and technical skills in CRISPR and flow cytometry. This position offers opportunities for PhD funding and professional development within a multidisciplinary environment.

Benefits

Generous maternity and adoption leave

Paternity leave

Fertility treatment policy

Access to state-of-the-art facilities

Support for academic career development

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Self-motivation, flexibility, and proactive approach to research.
• Willingness to pursue a PhD during the four-year period.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent projects on neural-endocrine crosstalk.
• Design and conduct live zebrafish experiments.
• Perform flow cytometry and RNA-sequencing.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts and grant proposals.
• Collaborate in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Skills

Zebrafish handling

CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing

Confocal imaging and image analysis

Flow cytometry

Bioinformatics

Education

First-degree level in a biological or related discipline

Tools

FACS

RNA sequencing

Job description

Faculty of Health and Life Sciences

Graduate Research Assistant (GRA)

The University of Exeter seeks a full‑time, Wellcome‑funded Graduate Research Assistant to join the Yang laboratory within the Living Systems Institute. The post commences 1 September 2026 and is fixed‑term for four years.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent projects investigating neural‑endocrine crosstalk and its impact on glucose homeostasis in health and disease.
• Design and conduct live zebrafish experiments, including CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, whole‑mount staining, in‑vivo confocal imaging and 4D image analysis.
• Perform flow cytometry (FACS) and single‑cell and bulk RNA‑sequencing, coupled with bioinformatic analysis.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts, grant proposals and present findings at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate closely with postdocs, graduate students, undergraduate students and external partners in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Qualifications

• First‑degree level (or equivalent) in a biological or related discipline, with demonstrated knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology and bioinformatics.
• At least two of the following technical skills: zebrafish handling, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, confocal imaging and image analysis, flow cytometry, library preparation for RNA sequencing.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific information to diverse audiences.
• Self‑motivation, flexibility and a proactive approach to research and professional development.
• Willingness to pursue a PhD during the four‑year period (PhD tuition and research costs are fully funded).

What we can offer you

• Freedom to pursue intellectual interests across disciplines and produce internationally exciting research.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art facilities within the Living Systems Institute and a supportive multidisciplinary team.
• Sector‑leading staff benefits, including generous maternity and adoption leave, paternity leave and a fertility treatment policy.
• Opportunity to develop a high‑impact academic career through the Exeter Academic Initiative and external engagement support.
• A beautiful campus set in the heart of Devon, with a supportive academic community and signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant.

Contact

For further information please contact Dr. Yu Hsuan Carol Yang, e‑mail [e-mail].

Closing date for applications: 19 November 2025. Interviews will be scheduled approximately two weeks after the closing date.