Reseach Associate (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Cambridge is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate for a fixed-term position to work on the genomics of transmissible cancers. The role requires a PhD in computational biology and expertise in genome annotation and comparative cancer evolution. Responsibilities include fieldwork, data analysis, and collaboration in research efforts. The salary ranges from £37,694 to £46,049 per annum. This position offers the chance to contribute originally to significant research in the field.

Qualifications

• PhD in computational biology is required.
• Experience in genome annotation and comparative genomics datasets.
• Good organizational and interpersonal skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct field trips and sampling for data collection.
• Analyze genome and transcriptome data of transmissible cancers.
• Use phylogenetic methods to understand evolutionary histories.

Skills

Field work

Computational biology

Comparative cancer evolution

Tumour immunology

Genome annotation

Education

PhD in computational biology

Tools

Phylogenetic methods

Job description

Overview

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 6 months in the first instance.

The Transmissible Cancer Group at the University of Cambridge, Department of Veterinary Medicine, is seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a dynamic team studying the genomics and evolution of transmissible cancers. This is a fixed-term 6-month position supported by a research grant. This post is expected to start on 1st June 2026 but there is some flexibility for an earlier or later start date.

Transmissible cancers are long-lived clonal lineages of malignant cells that operate as infectious parasites, spreading between individuals by the physical transfer of living cancer cells. Among mammals, such diseases have been described in only two species: dogs and Tasmanian devils, and are spread by mating and biting, respectively. These extraordinary cell lineages provide an opportunity to study cancer evolution over the long-term, and to investigate the interaction between cancer cells and the allogeneic immune system. Furthering our knowledge of these diseases may also shed light on their transmission dynamics and inform conservation work.

Role

This position is suited for someone with skills in field work and computational biology with an interest in comparative cancer evolution and tumour immunology. The role-holder will be involved in field trip and sampling efforts, and will perform analysis of genome and transcriptome data from tumours belonging to transmissible cancer lineages. We will annotate genetic variants and use these to understand past and ongoing mutational and evolutionary processes. We will use phylogenetic methods to reconstruct evolutionary histories, and estimate mutation rates to infer transmissible cancer origin dates.

Qualifications

Applicants should hold a PhD in computational biology, and have experience in genome annotation, troubleshooting comparative genomics datasets, and knowledge of comparative cancer biology. The candidate must value teamwork and collaboration, have good organisational and interpersonal skills, and should be able to effectively manage their time. They will have the opportunity to make their own original contribution to the field of study within the framework of the project.

Application

Applicants should submit a CHRIS/6, CV, covering letter outlining suitability for the role, and contact details for two referees. Please ensure that you upload your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a covering letter in the Upload section of the online application. Any additional documents, which have not been requested, will not be considered as part of your application.

For more information about the Transmissible Cancer Group visit www.tcg.vet.cam.ac.uk, and for information about the Department of Veterinary Medicine visit www.vet.cam.ac.uk. Informal enquiries should be directed to Prof Elizabeth Murchison ([e-mail]); enquiries about the application process should be directed to Julie Ingham ([e-mail]).

Equality and Diversity

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

Salary

£37,694 to £46,049 per annum