Research Assistant (Genomics Core) (Fixed Term)

Camwebdir; United Kingdom; Remote; GBP 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The CRUK Cambridge Institute Genomics Core (CIGC) seeks a proactive Research Assistant to Senior Specialist for single-cell and spatial genomics support. You will perform single-cell library preparation, sample QC, and data analysis, while collaborating with users and pilots to explore new sequencing methods.

You will work with Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms, contribute to method development, and participate in training and knowledge sharing to advance our high-quality genomics services.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or higher in biological/biotechnological sciences.
• Experience with single-cell assays or spatial platforms is desirable.
• Familiarity with Illumina sequencing and QC workflows preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare single-cell libraries using standard kits.
• Process single-cell samples, perform RNA/DNA QC, and curate data in LIMS.
• Sequence prepared libraries on Illumina and ONT platforms, analyse quality data.
• Lead pilot experiments, test new methods, and implement novel technologies.
• Train users and collaborate across teams to maintain high-quality genomics services.

Skills

Single-cell

Library prep

PCR/qPCR

Data analysis

Education

Biological sciences degree

Tools

Illumina

Oxford Nanopore

LIMS

Job description

The CRUK Cambridge Institute (CI), a department of the University of Cambridge, is one of Europe's top cancer research institutes. The Institute is home to 18 research groups which cover a spectrum of research from basic experimental and computational cancer biology through translational cancer research to clinical application. The Institute's scientific Core Facilities work in partnership with the Institute's Research Groups and are a repository for deep technological expertise and knowledge, playing a fundamental role at the heart of the Institute's research community.

The CI Genomics Core (CIGC) provides Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) services for CRUK CI as well as the wider University and collaborative laboratories across the campus. The CIGC supports translational research by providing a variety of bulk DNA/RNA library preps, sequencing services..

You’ll be joining us at an exciting time as we continue to expand our genomics service encompassing ever larger scale genomics projects and continue to develop our utilisation and innovation of sequencing technologies, library preparation methods, single cell and spatial techniques; providing genomic data for CRUK CI and the University of Cambridge. Genomics is our passion and generating exceptionally high-quality data to translate research is our mission.

Joining CIGC means joining a supportive environment dedicated to your professional growth. We offer comprehensive initial training, support for job-related courses, and a clear promotional pathway leading from Research Assistant to Senior Specialist (Single Cell & Spatial or Library prep & Sequencing Specialists). You will also lead hands‑on benchmarking projects to evaluate novel technologies and have the opportunity to present your findings at conferences.

The role holder will assist in the provision of these services as well as carrying out research support directly. This will include the introduction of new methods and technologies to enhance the quality of research at the Institute and wider University. Daily duties will involve single cell library preparation using standard kits from different suppliers, single‑cell sample receipt and processing, RNA / DNA sample quality control, LIMS curation, and sequencing these samples on Illumina and ONT sequencers, data analysis of quality, and interaction with users of the services. The post-holder will be involved in pilot experiments, testing and implementing new technologies including novel library preparation for single cells and spatial single cell platforms. In the first instance the role holder will support single cell and spatial activities.

The post-holder will be expected to work under their own initiative for most of their daily duties and also to troubleshoot and resolve any issues they encounter. They will be able to work with the relevant technical support teams of instrument suppliers and may elevate issues to a more senior member of the group depending on the severity of the issue. Contribution to teaching within the Institute will include training users on QC equipment in the CIGC.

We are seeking an enthusiastic team player with a degree in biological or biotechnological sciences and a solid foundation in core molecular biology techniques such as PCR/qPCR and DNA/RNA library prep. Practical experience with single‑cell assays, spatial platforms, Illumina systems, or Oxford Nanopore long‑read sequencing is highly desirable. You should be a proactive communicator who thrives both independently and collaboratively, helping the CIGC to set and maintain an exceptional genomics service.

Fixed‑term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

This post may require some out‑of‑hour working and travel to national seminars/meetings.

Fixed‑term: The funds for this post are available for 12 months in the first instance.

Interviews are expected to be held between 21st ¿ 23rd of September 2026.

If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact: [e-mail]

Please quote reference SW50694 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.