Research Assistant / Research Associate (Fixed Term)

University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Cambridge invites applications for a postdoctoral scientist to join the Radford Lab in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences. You will lead a project aimed at identifying new diagnoses and treatments for genetic neuro-developmental conditions in children, using high-throughput molecular and cellular techniques.

You will characterise thousands of genetic variants in promoters and regulatory regions, employing methods including base and prime editing, CRISPR/Cas9 screens,

Qualifications

• PhD in a related field; strong background in molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with high-throughput molecular and cellular approaches is desirable.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team.

Responsibilities

• Lead a project identifying diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for neuro-developmental conditions.
• Apply high-throughput molecular and cellular methods to characterise genetic variants.
• Supervise junior lab members and participate in lab meetings and seminars.
• Contribute to external funding applications and training opportunities.

Skills

molecular biology

cell culture

CRISPR/Cas9

next-generation sequencing

single-cell RNAseq

Education

PhD in molecular biology

PhD in biochemistry

PhD in genetics

Tools

CRISPR/Cas9 screens

Job description

We are looking for a motivated postdoctoral scientist to join the research group of Dr. Elizabeth Radford in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences (https://www.sanger.ac.uk/external_person/radford-elizabeth/).

You will lead a research project focused on identifying new diagnoses and treatment approaches for genetic neuro-developmental conditions that affect children. You will apply high-throughput molecular and cellular techniques to functionally characterise thousands of genetic variants in the promoter and regulatory regions of genes that cause neurodevelopmental conditions. The techniques include molecular biology and cell culture, base and prime editing and CRISPR/Cas9 screens, next-generation sequencing assays, and single-cell RNAseq.

Candidates are expected to be independent, highly motivated, and keen to work openly and collaboratively with internal and external scientists. You will demonstrate core values of enthusiasm, openness, kindness and integrity. A PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics or a related field is expected. Ideal qualifications include experience with the execution and analysis of advanced molecular biology techniques, cell culture, gene editing and CRISPR/Cas9 screening, but others are welcome to apply. You will participate in group meetings and internal seminars. You will assist in the supervision of junior lab members. You will be encouraged to apply for external funding and will receive support to undertake further training.

We have a strong commitment to both personal and professional development. You will be encouraged to develop your own ideas and build your research profile. You will benefit from networking and training opportunities across the Wellcome Sanger Institute and the University of Cambridge.

The Radford Lab (website) is based at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and you will interface closely with collaborators at the University and internationally. We are embedded in a highly collaborative environment that encourages creativity and scientific excellence with access to state-of-the-art research facilities and technologies. We actively translate our research into the clinic. You will advance our understanding of genetic conditions that affect children’s development.

Benefits

• The Wellcome Sanger Institute: This provides access to a highly collaborative multi-disciplinary genomics research environment equipped with exceptional experimental and computational infrastructure, world-class training and professional development opportunities.
• European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI): Co-located on the Wellcome Genome Campus, EMBL-EBI is an international leader in data science, and provides access to a joint translational ecosystem, further training and professional development opportunities.
• The Department of Clinical Neurosciences: The Radford Lab is part of the Department of Clinical Neurosciences, providing access to cutting-edge clinical research and fostering collaborations with neurologists and other pre-clinical researchers. This proximity allows a seamless connection to the clinical aspects of the field and to translate research findings into patient care.
• The Clinical School: Offers exposure to teaching and learning opportunities, with potential for involvement in educational activities and interaction with students and faculty (more information is reported below).
• UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI): Allows interaction with researchers at the forefront of dementia research, with opportunities for the exploration of shared genetic architecture between rare and common neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to the development of new treatments and preventative strategies.

Applicants must have (or be close to obtaining) a PhD.

Appointment at Research Associate level is dependent on having a PhD. Those who have submitted but not yet received their PhD will initially be appointed as a Research Assistant (Grade 5, Point 38 £34,610) moving to Research Associate (Grade 7) upon confirmation of your PhD award.

Closing Date: 1st October 2026

Interview Date: to be confirmed

Please quote reference RR50947 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.