Research Assistant/Associate (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Cambridge invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in DNA nanotechnology for targeted delivery of fibrinolytics to activated platelets. The role involves designing and functionalising DNA nanostructures, and developing imaging approaches to study interactions with platelets and thrombi.

The successful candidate will work in a highly multidisciplinary, collaborative environment, contributing to publications and funding proposals. Fixed-term: 36 months.

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant subject and background in DNA nanotechnology or related disciplines.
• Experience with biophysical methods and microscopy for complex biological systems.
• Strong interest in multidisciplinary, collaborative research environments.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesis and functionalisation of DNA nanostructures for targeted fibrinolytic delivery.
• Develop imaging approaches for visualisation of DNA nanostructures and their interaction with platelets/thrombi.
• Collaborate with team members and train others; record-keeping and reporting findings.
• Contribute to drafting papers and research bids; stay up to date with literature.

Skills

DNA nanotechnology

Microscopy

Biophysical methods

Experiment design

Education

PhD in a relevant subject

Tools

Fluorescence microscopy

DNA nanostructure synthesis

Job description

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in DNA nanotechnology for the targeted delivery of fibrinolytics to activated platelets, in the groups of Dr Ioanna Mela (https://www.ioannamela.com/) and Prof. Matthew Harper (https://www.phar.cam.ac.uk/research/harper).

The successful candidate will conduct research on the design, synthesis and functionalisation of DNA nanostructures, to carry both targeting molecules and active payloads to activated platelets. The aim of the project is to i) develop new DNA nanostructures for optimal interaction with activated platelets ii) characterise and quantify the effects of targeted fibrinolytic delivery to thrombi through a variety of biophysical methods.

The applicant should have (or be about to obtain) a PhD in a relevant specialist subject and a background in DNA nanotechnology, microscopy or related disciplines. All candidates should have a keen interest in applying biophysical methods to complex biological systems and enjoy working in a highly multidisciplinary, dynamic and collaborative environment.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will be appointed at Research Assistant level, which will be amended to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.

Key Responsibilities

• To develop and carry out a project on the design, synthesis and functionalisation of DNA nanostructures for targeted fibrinolytic delivery
• To develop new imaging approaches for the visualisation of plain and functionalised DNA nanostructures
• To develop new imaging approaches for the visualisation of the interaction between the DNA nanostructures with individual platelets and with thrombi
• To collaborate closely with other members of the team, and support and train other team members as required.
• To keep record of nanostructure design, imaging work and software development; to prepare and present findings of research activity to the PI and the lab on a regular basis.
• To contribute to the drafting and submitting of papers to appropriate peer reviewed journals.
• To keep up to date with relevant literature in the field.
• To prepare progress reports on research for funding bodies as required.
• To contribute to the preparation and drafting of research bids and proposals.
• To contribute to the overall activities of the research team and department as required.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 36 months in the first instance.

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

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.