Research Assistant in Cell Biology [Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia] (Fixed Term)

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

Job summary

A prestigious research institution is seeking a committed graduate research assistant for a project on hereditary spastic paraplegias. This role involves working closely with post-doctoral researchers to investigate cell biology and molecular neuroscience. A BSc in biological, biochemical, or biomedical sciences is essential, along with experience in relevant research areas. The position is full-time with a minimum funding of one year, offering valuable lab experience before pursuing a PhD.

Qualifications

• Experience in molecular cell biology or molecular neuroscience required.
• Previous research experience is desirable, especially in stem cell culture or neuronal differentiation.
• Knowledge of a programming language such as R or Python is valuable.

Responsibilities

• Work under the supervision of a post-doctoral researcher.
• Be an active member of an interactive group.
• Demonstrate good communication and organisational skills.

Skills

Molecular cell biology

Molecular neuroscience

Programming (R or Python)

Education

BSc in biological, biochemical or biomedical sciences

Tools

FACS

CRISPR-Cas

Immunofluorescence microscopy

Job description

Overview

Applications are invited for an enthusiastic and committed graduate research assistant to join a team investigating the cell biology of hereditary spastic paraplegias. This project is based in the group of Professor Evan Reid at Cambridge Institute for Medical Research and is funded for a minimum of 1 year. It would suit a recent biological sciences graduate who would like to obtain more practical laboratory experience before embarking on a PhD.

The project aims to understand the functions of hereditary spastic paraplegia proteins in the molecular pathogenesis of axonal degeneration. The work will be at the interface between cell biology (especially membrane traffic) and molecular neuroscience, and will focus on functional genomic synthetic lethality and fluorescent activated cells sorting (FACS)-based screens using iPSC-derived neuronal models of HSP. The lab employs an integrated approach that combines state of the art cell biology, biochemistry, proteomics, functional genomics and stem cell-derived neuronal modeling. Cambridge Institute for Medical Research is a centre of excellence that has a strong focus on understanding the molecular mechanisms of disease, with the aim of translating basic discoveries to clinically meaningful therapies. It is known for its positive research culture.

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Responsibilities

• Work under the practical supervision of a post-doctoral researcher to achieve the aims of the project.
• Be an active member of an interactive group with a friendly and collegiate outlook.
• Demonstrate good written and verbal communications skills, be well-organised, and able to work calmly to meet deadlines.

Qualifications

• Must have experience in molecular cell biology or molecular neuroscience, and by appointment have a BSc in the biological, biochemical or biomedical sciences.
• Previous research experience is desirable, especially in one of the following areas: stem cell culture and neuronal differentiation, FACS, fixed or live cell immunofluorescence microscopy, lentiviral delivery of RNA or DNA to cultured cells, CRISPR-Cas genome editing.
• Some knowledge of a programming language such as R or Python would be valuable.

Application process

• Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
• Upload a covering letter and CV in the Upload section of the online application. The covering letter should outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role. If you upload any additional documents which have not been requested, we will not be able to consider these as part of your application.
• Include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.
• Please quote reference SE47411 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Dates

• Closing date: 20th October 2025
• Interview date: week commencing 27th October 2025

Data, equality and eligibility

• For information about how your personal data is used as an applicant, please see the section on Applicant Data on the HR pages.
• 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.