Research Assistant/Associate (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative research group is seeking a researcher to explore the genetics of obesity, starting with canines and extending to human comparative genetics. This role offers the chance to work on cutting-edge genomic studies, focusing on appetite and obesity. The ideal candidate will have postdoctoral experience in genomics or molecular biology, with a passion for understanding genetic influences on health. Join a diverse team committed to scientific excellence and professional development, where your contributions will play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of obesity-related genetics.

Qualifications

• Postdoctoral level with experience in canine or human genomics.
• Candidates without PhD but with expertise in bioinformatics considered.

Responsibilities

• Study genetics of obesity in pet dogs and humans.
• Use GWAS and genetic approaches to identify novel genes.

Skills

Genomics expertise

Molecular biology

Bioinformatics

Understanding of obesity/metabolism

Education

PhD in relevant field

Postdoctoral experience

Job description

The GOdogs group is looking to appoint researcher to our group which studies the genetics of obesity, starting with canine genetics but with a strong programme of allied human comparative genetics and functional/molecular studies.

Whilst the focus of this recruitment drive is to find a candidate with genomics expertise, enquiries would also be welcome from molecular biologists interested in using their skills to pursue functional studies of new obesity genes (especially related to endocytosis and cell signalling).

We use GWAS and genetic approaches to identify novel genes responsible for obesity and other common conditions in pet dogs, then use comparative genomics to determine those genes also relevant to humans. Genes and variants responsible are studied in the molecular biology lab and by testing their effect on the physiology and eating behaviour of dogs. All our canine work is done with pet dogs, volunteered by their owners for study (not dedicated lab animals).

This post will be focussed on the genetics of appetite and obesity. Candidates should be of postdoctoral level with relevant experience of canine or/and human genomics, or molecular biology. Candidates without PhD but significant expertise in bioinformatics and genetics would also be considered.

For genetics-focussed candidates, subject knowledge in obesity/metabolism is welcome, but not essential. For molecular biology candidates, background knowledge relevant to understanding the molecular links between genes and obesity is more important.

We are a small group with diversity of background, interest and experience in which wider professional development and pursuit of your interests are encouraged alongside scientific rigour and excellence.

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.

Informal enquiries can be made to Dr Eleanor Raffan [e-mail] . Candidates interested in part time or flexible working are encouraged to discuss this in advance of application.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

To apply for this post, please submit a CV and a covering letter detailing why you want to be part of this project and how this post will be a good stepping-stone for your career. We also need the contact details for two people who can provide a professional reference.

The closing date for applications is 26th May 2025.

Please quote reference PM45840 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

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.